(DDM) – Chelsea endured another nightmare evening at Old Trafford after goalkeeper Robert Sanchez was shown a straight red card just minutes into their Premier League clash with Manchester United.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that referee Peter Bankes dismissed Sanchez for bringing down Bryan Mbeumo outside the penalty area in what was deemed a clear goalscoring opportunity.
Chelsea players protested the decision furiously, but VAR confirmed the referee’s call after a brief review, leaving manager Enzo Maresca no choice but to reshuffle his lineup in the early stages.
Former Premier League striker Alan Smith, speaking on commentary, explained that although Chelsea defenders were chasing back, the referee judged that Mbeumo had a direct route to goal, which justified the dismissal.
The decision forced Chelsea into emergency substitutions, with an outfield player sacrificed to bring in backup goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic.
Minutes later, Bruno Fernandes compounded Chelsea’s misery by scoring the opening goal for Manchester United, sending the home crowd into raptures.
The setback added to the pressure on Chelsea, who have struggled for consistency throughout the season despite heavy summer spending.
Maresca’s men have faced criticism for their lack of defensive discipline and inability to cope under pressure in big matches.
Sanchez, who joined Chelsea in 2023 from Brighton, has faced mixed reviews for his performances, with this latest incident likely to intensify scrutiny on his reliability as first-choice goalkeeper.
The red card means Sanchez will serve a suspension, missing Chelsea’s next fixtures at a time when the club desperately needs stability at the back.
Chelsea fans expressed frustration on social media, arguing that the decision was harsh and that Mbeumo may have exaggerated contact.
United supporters, however, insisted the referee made the right call and praised Fernandes for punishing the Blues immediately after the dismissal.
The result keeps Manchester United’s momentum alive, while Chelsea’s season threatens to spiral further, with Maresca already under scrutiny from the board.
Post Views: 63
