Emi Martinez has undergone surgery following a serious head collision with Jarrad Branthwaite, the Chelsea goalkeeper confirmed on Sunday. The incident occurred during Chelsea’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton on Saturday.

A brace from Pedro Neto at Hill Dickinson Stadium ended Everton’s unbeaten start to the league season. However, Chelsea’s win was overshadowed by a lengthy stoppage in the second half after the worrying collision between Martinez and Branthwaite.

The incident happened when Everton midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall delivered a free kick into the penalty area. Martinez and Branthwaite collided while challenging for the ball, leaving both players requiring medical attention.

Although Branthwaite managed to get back to his feet after receiving treatment, Martinez needed assistance from paramedics. The 34-year-old goalkeeper was eventually secured to a stretcher and carried off the pitch before being taken to hospital with a concussion. Argentine media also reported that he had sustained a jaw injury.

Martinez later reassured supporters about his condition in a social media post published early on Sunday.

“Thanks to everyone for the messages. The operation went well,” he wrote.

“The most important thing is that we won and kept a clean sheet. In a few weeks we’ll be back.”

Penders Steps In for Chelsea

Martinez’s injury forced Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso to introduce Mike Penders for his Premier League debut. The 21-year-old goalkeeper delivered a composed performance, helping Chelsea secure their first Premier League clean sheet since January.

Penders, who has represented Belgium at youth international level, could now be called upon again while Martinez recovers and works towards a return to training.

Chelsea face a demanding run of fixtures in the coming weeks. They will host Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League next Saturday before travelling to face Liverpool in the fourth round of the League Cup on October 28. A home league encounter against Manchester United follows three days later.

Speaking after the Everton victory, Alonso expressed confidence in his young goalkeeper and praised his contribution.

“Mike has personality. He’s brave and we have full trust with him. He did well,” Alonso told reporters.

“He played in the cup games and whenever he’s needed, like the other players whenever they are needed they can perform.

“It’s all about the squad, that all the players feel important and can have their moment whenever they are needed, and that’s very positive.”