Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez has issued a public apology after his early dismissal proved costly in the club’s 2-1 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday.
The Spanish shot-stopper was shown a straight red card just five minutes into the Premier League clash for a rash challenge on Bryan Mbeumo outside the penalty area. The incident left Chelsea playing almost the entire match with ten men, forcing Mauricio Pochettino’s side into a defensive struggle.
Taking responsibility for the setback, Sanchez used his Instagram page to reach out to supporters. “On me today guys, big sorry for that. Team put a massive effort in the second half but couldn’t get there,” he wrote.
The dismissal entered the record books as the earliest sending-off for a Chelsea player in Premier League history. Sanchez also became only the third goalkeeper in the league’s history to receive a red card within the opening five minutes of a match.
Read Also: Osimhen, Nnadozie, Madugu Fly Nigeria’s Flag on 2025 Ballon d’Or Shortlist
Referee Peter Bankes stood firm on his decision, ruling that the Spaniard had denied a clear goalscoring opportunity. The sending-off carries a mandatory one-match suspension, meaning Sanchez will miss Tuesday’s Carabao Cup fixture against Lincoln City. He is, however, expected to return in time to face his former club Brighton in league action next weekend.
Despite a spirited second-half display, Chelsea could not overturn the early setback, with Manchester United capitalising to secure a narrow 2-1 victory in front of their home crowd.
