Emiliano Martinez Takes Chelsea’s No. 1 Shirt

Chelsea confirmed that goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez will change from the No. 26 shirt to the No. 1 jersey after Robert Sanchez’s loan move to Como left the number vacant. Martinez, who debuted for the Blues in a 4-3 win over Brighton & Hove Albion wearing No. 26, is set to wear the No. 1 shirt in the upcoming league match against Arsenal on Sunday. To address supporters who purchased the season’s “Martinez 26” shirts, the club announced that Martinez will sign each of those shirts for fans who bring the item and proof of purchase to Stamford Bridge by the scheduled deadline of October 4.

The IndependentEmi Martinez changes Chelsea squad number

When Martinez arrived from Aston Villa on a £7.5 million transfer, he chose No. 26 in part to follow the legacy of former captain John Terry, who famously wore the same number. Martinez has spoken about the pride he feels in continuing that lineage, recalling a phone call with Terry in which the former defender encouraged him to wear the number with “pride.”

The Independent

Chelsea’s official statement explained the number change and the goodwill gesture: the club will facilitate the signing of “Martinez 26” shirts obtained through the official Club Megastore or website, provided supporters present the shirt and proof of purchase at Stamford Bridge by October 4. The announcement emphasizes that the offer applies only to shirts purchased through official channels.

Emi Martinez changes Chelsea squad number

The No. 1 shirt debut will occur in the Sunday fixture against Arsenal, marking Martinez’s first appearance in the iconic goalkeeper number for Chelsea. Fans wishing to receive a signed No. 26 shirt must act before the October 4 deadline, after which the club has not indicated any further compensation plan.

The Independent