Chelsea's Robert Sanchez. (REUTERS/Phil Noble)
Chelsea’s unbeaten start to the 2025/26 Premier League season came to a crashing halt over the weekend as the Blues suffered their first defeat of the campaign.
A rain-soaked Old Trafford provided the backdrop for a chaotic 2-1 loss to Manchester United — a match defined by an early moment of madness from Robert Sánchez.
The Spanish goalkeeper was dismissed inside the opening minutes for hauling down Bryan Mbeumo, who was clean through on goal. Reduced to ten men, Chelsea battled bravely and even benefited from United going down to ten themselves later in the game, but the damage was already done.
The result has only intensified frustration with Sánchez, who has come under fire for a string of costly mistakes since arriving at Stamford Bridge.
Now, reports suggest the red card could prove to be the final straw — and may accelerate Chelsea’s search for a new No.1.
Chelsea Reignite Maignan Interest
According to the Daily Express, Chelsea are considering reigniting their pursuit of Mike Maignan, with the AC Milan star potentially available on a free transfer next summer.
The Blues explored a deal for the French international back in June, but Milan held firm, slapping a £25 million price tag on their goalkeeper. Chelsea opted to wait, but Sánchez’s dismissal at Old Trafford could push them back into the market sooner rather than later.
With Maignan’s contract at San Siro expiring in 2026, the 30-year-old will be free to negotiate pre-contract terms with foreign clubs in January. Chelsea could seize the moment and move quickly, either securing him on a free transfer for the summer or striking an earlier agreement to bring him in mid-season.
Enzo Maresca is said to be a big admirer of Maignan, viewing him as the perfect fit for Chelsea’s tactical system. And with the Frenchman conceding just two goals in Serie A so far this season, he continues to prove why he’s considered among the most reliable and valuable shot-stoppers in world football.
For Chelsea, who now face a goalkeeper dilemma after Sánchez’s blunder, Maignan could be the long-term solution they’ve been crying out for.
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