Arsenal legend Emmanuel Petit has voiced his dissatisfaction with Chelsea’s current first-choice goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez, following the Blues’ 2-1 defeat to Liverpool in the Premier League at Anfield.
Sanchez, who was signed to strengthen Chelsea’s defense, came under scrutiny after his performance in the match, with many blaming him for Liverpool’s second goal.
Petit, speaking to Genting Casino, did not mince words about the Spaniard’s suitability for the London club, stating that he does not inspire confidence in the team’s backline.
“I was not convinced at all by Robert Sanchez against Liverpool,” Petit remarked. “He came off his line badly, didn’t give assurance to the defense, and so for me, it was obvious that he was nowhere near the level to be on the pitch.”
The Frenchman, who is well-known for his analytical take on football, highlighted that Chelsea has had world-class goalkeepers in the past, referencing the iconic Petr Cech, and expressed his belief that Sanchez does not meet the club’s high standards.
While acknowledging Sanchez’s ability as a good goalkeeper, Petit emphasized that he is not the right fit for Chelsea.
He urged the club to seek a replacement, suggesting two top French goalkeepers—AC Milan’s Mike Maignan and Lille’s Lucas Chevalier—as potential solutions to the Blues’ goalkeeping issues.
“There are two French goalkeepers who I love: Mike Maignan of AC Milan, but he will probably be too expensive. Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier has been marvelous in recent years and has been making miracles in goal. I really think he could be the answer to Chelsea’s goalkeeping problems,” Petit added.