EPL: ‘You can’t win anything with him in your starting XI’ – Agbonlahor warns Alonso over Chelsea star

Former Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor has cautioned Chelsea that their pursuit of the Premier League title is hindered by the presence of Robert Sanchez as their primary goalkeeper. Sanchez, who joined Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2023, has been a focal point of discussion following their match against Fulham. During the broadcast on talkSPORT, Agbonlahor shared his observations about the team's goalkeeping situation after his son made light of Chelsea's conceded goals.

Agbonlahor remarked, "Chelsea will not compete for the Premier League title with Sanchez in goal. It's perplexing, even like last season." His children were evidently perplexed by Sanchez's performance, noting his inability to effectively compete for crosses, often resulting in unforced errors. "If the cross is delivered, Josh King, your defence is there for that. He is trying to sneak and sort of cheat. Just remain in your goal," Agbonlahor emphasized, urging Sanchez to focus on his task at hand.

The Spanish goalkeeper made four saves during the match against Fulham, but his performance was notably inconsistent. Sanchez's errors, while not all resulting in goals, contributed to Chelsea's vulnerability. Agbonlahor's comments reflect the growing sentiment among fans and analysts that Sanchez should not remain Chelsea's starting goalkeeper.

Mike Penders, who spent the 2025-26 season on loan at Strasbourg and has since been recalled to the Chelsea squad, is expected to feature in their upcoming match against League One team Luton. Penders' potential debut will mark a shift in Chelsea's goalkeeping strategy, as Alonso weighs his options ahead of their second-round FA Cup fixture.