Club World Cup Goalkeeper of the Year: Robert Sanchez Gets a New Deal at Chelsea After Final Performance
Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez has secured a new contract at Stamford Bridge following his standout performance in the Club World Cup final against PSG. The Spaniard was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament, a dramatic turnaround after months of criticism and speculation over his future at the club.
Chelsea Reconsiders Goalkeeping Plans
According to Sky Sports journalist Kaveh Solhekol, Chelsea had been close to signing Mike Maignan as Enzo Maresca searched for a new number one. However, Sánchez’s key role in the Blues’ 3-0 victory over PSG convinced the manager to keep the Spaniard for the upcoming season.
Initially ruled out of Chelsea’s 2025–26 plans, Sánchez will now stay and compete with Filip Jorgensen for the starting spot in goal.
Heroic Final Performance
In the final at MetLife Stadium, Sánchez made six crucial saves, five of them from inside the penalty box, helping Chelsea neutralize the French attack. He also completed nine accurate long balls and had 45 total ball actions, playing a pivotal role in the team’s counter-attacking strategy.
Rated 8.5 by SofaScore, Sánchez was second only to Cole Palmer, the match’s best player.
Recognition and Redemption
Although not selected in the Team of the Tournament, Sánchez’s performances throughout the knockout stages particularly against Benfica, Palmeiras, Fluminense, and PSG were instrumental in Chelsea’s title run.
After a turbulent season and being on the verge of a transfer, the Spaniard’s resurgence now sees him return to favor with Maresca, as Chelsea prepares for the new campaign.
