Emiliano Martinez makes instant Chelsea impression in seven-goal Brighton thriller

Emiliano Martinez made an immediate impact on his Chelsea debut as the Argentina goalkeeper helped his new side survive a thrilling 4-3 victory over Brighton at Stamford Bridge.

Martinez joined Chelsea from Aston Villa on a three-year contract and was named in the starting XI only 48 hours after arriving at the club. Although he conceded three goals, the 33-year-old produced a series of important reaction saves as Chelsea secured their second Premier League win of the season.

Chelsea manager Alonso was pleased with the performance of the experienced goalkeeper and said Martinez’s character could prove as valuable as his ability between the posts.

“Emi is a World Cup winner, is 33 years old, and is very experienced,” Alonso told the Chelsea website.

“I spoke with him yesterday and we talked about the game and our team. He felt ready, and I don’t have to tell him many things for him to perform.

“Even today, while a goalkeeper wants to keep a clean sheet, I am happy with his impact. He has been in the building just 48 hours, so now we will have a whole week to prepare for the next one.

“Day by day, we will feel this presence because he has this charisma, this aura to influence and have a very positive connection with the rest of the team.”

Chelsea appeared to be heading for a comfortable afternoon after taking complete control in the early stages and building a three-goal advantage.

Romeo Lavia scored from close range to claim his first goal for Chelsea, before Pedro Neto added a second. Joao Pedro then extended the hosts’ lead, putting Chelsea in a commanding position.

Brighton responded with determination. Malick Yalcouye pulled one goal back, and the visitors moved to within one when Joao Pedro turned a cross into his own net.

Cole Palmer restored Chelsea’s two-goal cushion with an outstanding curling finish from 20 yards, but Brighton refused to surrender. Pascal Groß scored late on to set up a tense finish before Chelsea held on for all three points.

The result left Alonso pleased with the outcome, although he acknowledged that the performance exposed both Chelsea’s potential and areas still requiring improvement.

“All the wins I enjoy a lot, but it was a game that in different moments had different feelings,” Alonso said.

“In the end, we’re happy with the result. We value this win against a very good opponent who have been tough in the last few years.

“We are happy with that, and there are things and moments that we have done well, but it’s a process to keep on learning and improving. Usually, that is easier with a win.”

Chelsea’s main concern from the match was a suspected injury to Moises Caicedo.

The Ecuador midfielder made his first appearance of the season after coming on as a substitute, but his involvement lasted only 13 minutes. He was replaced by Valentin Barco.

Alonso said Caicedo would be assessed during the week but indicated that the issue was not a new problem.

“He was cautious to stop and say his feeling wasn’t the best,” Alonso said.

“We need to assess during the week, but it wasn’t something new.”

Chelsea now face a difficult test in their next Premier League match, when they travel to Arsenal at Emirates Stadium next Sunday.