Chelsea supporters have called for Robert Sanchez to be sold after the goalkeeper made a costly error during the club’s 3-2 Premier League victory over Fulham.
Sanchez remained Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper for the opening game of the season under new manager Xabi Alonso, but his performance at Craven Cottage quickly became a major talking point among supporters.
Chelsea had taken the lead after just 31 seconds through Joao Pedro, who produced a delightful finish over Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno. The goal was described as the quickest scored on the opening matchday of a Premier League season.
However, Chelsea’s early advantage disappeared in the 23rd minute when Fulham midfielder Josh King’s powerful strike beat Sanchez at his near post.
The goalkeeper was slow to get down to the effort and was unable to prevent the ball from finding the net, prompting an immediate backlash from Chelsea supporters on social media. One fan simply demanded that Sanchez leave the club, while another called for the goalkeeper to be sold.
Another supporter expressed concern that Sanchez could undermine what Alonso is trying to build at Chelsea, while a further fan urged the club to act quickly because the transfer window remains open.
One supporter went as far as calling for Sanchez to be sacked. The criticism intensified later in the match when Sanchez was involved in another Fulham goal.
After Chelsea had established a 3-1 lead, the goalkeeper palmed Timothy Castagne’s strike into the path of Gonzalo Garcia, who reacted quickly to reduce Fulham’s deficit.
Despite Sanchez’s difficult outing, Chelsea held on for a 3-2 victory to give Alonso three points in his first competitive match in charge.
The Blues had regained their lead before half-time through summer signing Morgan Rogers. The forward finished after being picked out by fellow new arrival Maxence Lacroix, who produced the assist following an impressive run.
Cole Palmer then extended Chelsea’s advantage shortly after the restart, giving the visitors a two-goal cushion before Garcia’s goal brought Fulham back into the contest.
Chelsea ultimately survived the late pressure to begin the Alonso era with a victory, but Sanchez’s performance left supporters demanding a change between the posts.
The goalkeeper had already faced criticism earlier in the month from Premier League icon Shay Given, and his latest display is likely to increase scrutiny surrounding his position.
Chelsea will now turn their attention to the Carabao Cup, with Luton Town awaiting them in the second round on Thursday. For Sanchez, the match provides an opportunity to respond to the criticism after a difficult opening night.
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