Rosenior Stands by Sanchez After Chelsea’s Defeat to Arsenal

Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has taken responsibility for goalkeeper Robert Sanchez’s mistakes following the club’s 3-2 defeat to Arsenal in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final.

Sanchez, 28, was criticized for his role in Arsenal’s first two goals at Stamford Bridge. Rosenior indicated that the team had been affected by injuries and illnesses, which compounded their challenges in the match. Sanchez struggled to claim a corner taken by Declan Rice, which led to Ben White scoring the opening goal in the seventh minute. Later, a cross from White slipped through Sanchez’s grasp, enabling Viktor Gyokeres to find the net in the 49th minute.

While Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi also scored, Chelsea substitute Alejandro Garnacho’s two goals helped keep the tie within reach for Chelsea. In his first home game as manager, Rosenior expressed his commitment to developing a new tactical approach for Sanchez.

“It’s a team goal; it’s not just on Rob [Sanchez],” Rosenior stated. “I’m asking Rob to perform tasks he hasn’t done before. Before the game, I made it clear that when my players make mistakes, I am accountable. That falls on me.

“He made a world-class save in the second half that could have turned the match. I believe he will improve his understanding of my tactics. This was Rob’s first game with me, and I’ve only had two days to work with him. I need to imprint my philosophy on the team, but I must ensure we win while also aiming for long-term improvement this season.

“There are many positives in Rob’s performance. I protect my players; if he makes a mistake while following my instructions, that’s my responsibility. I have faith that we will improve as a team with the guidance we are providing him. My role is to support them, not to lay blame.

Despite the defeat marking Rosenior’s first since taking charge, he remained optimistic about the team’s performance, citing several individual positives. He acknowledged the impact of illness and injury on the squad.

Key players, including Cole Palmer, Reece James, and Malo Gusto, missed the match due to fitness concerns, while Moises Caicedo was suspended, and illness sidelined Liam Delap and Jamie Gittens. Rosenior explained that Palmer suffered a minor thigh strain, which needed to be carefully managed to avoid a longer absence.

He mentioned that James sustained a significant hip injury but expressed hope for his return on Saturday. Regarding Gittens and Delap, who were both ill prior to the match, Rosenior noted their dangerously high fevers and hoped for their recovery in time for the next game.

Rosenior emphasized Chelsea’s competitive spirit against an Arsenal side that has only lost twice this season, asserting that his squad could still mount a comeback in the second leg at the Emirates Stadium on February 3.

“We were playing against one of the best pressing teams in Europe, and we were missing several key players,” he remarked. “I am proud of the players’ bravery in executing aspects of my game plan. In just six days, we have had two matches. I don’t ask for time because I believe the team is strong enough to win now. However, I need to make my mark on the team as well; otherwise, my presence here is pointless. It’s a delicate balance, and I hope our fans will witness the team’s progression while we strive for victories.”