Sanchez joined Chelsea for £25m from Brighton in 2023
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has asserted his “accountability” for Robert Sanchez’s errors, defending his goalkeeper following a 3-2 Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg defeat against Arsenal.
The Spanish international, 28, faced scrutiny for Arsenal‘s initial two goals at Stamford Bridge, with Rosenior citing illness within the squad.
Sanchez was unable to secure Declan Rice’s corner, leading to Ben White’s conversion, and subsequently fumbled White’s cross, allowing Viktor Gyokeres to score at close range.
While Arsenal‘s Martin Zubimendi also scored, Chelsea substitute Alejandro Garnacho’s brace kept his team in contention.
In his first home match as Blues boss, Rosenior indicated he’s implementing a revised tactical strategy for Sanchez.
“It’s a collective responsibility, not solely on Rob [Sanchez],” he stated. “I’m asking Rob to execute new aspects of the game. I emphasized before the match that I bear the responsibility for my players’ mistakes. That falls on me.”
“He demonstrated a world-class save in the second half, which could have decided the tie. His understanding will improve.”
“This marks Rob’s debut under my guidance; we’ve had two days together. I need to integrate my vision into the team. That’s my purpose here.”
“I aim to balance immediate results with progressive improvements for the season’s objectives. It’s a delicate balance.”
“There are numerous positives in Rob’s performance. I am committed to supporting my players and take responsibility for any errors arising from implementing my instructions.”
“I am confident that, in the long run, our team will improve with the directives we’re providing. My role is to support, not to criticize.”
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Rosenior expressed general satisfaction with his team’s performance despite the loss – his first since taking charge – and emphasized positive aspects in almost every player’s display.
“Our primary challenge was managing widespread illness and injuries while competing against a formidable team,” Rosenior added.
Cole Palmer, Reece James, and Malo Gusto all failed late fitness assessments, while Moises Caicedo was suspended, and Liam Delap and Jamie Gittens were sidelined due to illness.
Regarding Palmer, Rosenior explained: “He sustained a minor thigh strain. Introducing a player prematurely in January with such a strain risks a six-week absence. We cannot afford to lose Cole Palmer for that duration, given his significance.”
He added that James suffered “a significant hip injury” but is “expected to return by Saturday.”
“Gittens fell ill last night, and Liam Delap, who was slated to play, became ill four hours before the game,” Rosenior stated.
“Both presented with alarmingly high temperatures. We hope they can recover and be fit for Saturday.”
Rosenior emphasized that Chelsea competed effectively against an Arsenal team that had only lost twice across all competitions this season, and that his team can still mount a comeback in the second leg at Emirates Stadium on 3 February.
“We faced arguably the best pressing team in Europe today, fielding their strongest lineup, while we were missing several players,” he added.
“I commend the players’ courage in attempting to execute the strategies I requested. We’ve had two matches in six days. I’m not requesting time, as I believe the group is capable of winning now.”
“However, I also need to implement my vision – otherwise, my presence is irrelevant. It’s a delicate balance, and we hope the fans will observe the team’s progress. Simultaneously, we must secure victories.”
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