Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf has questioned whether goalkeeper Robert Sanchez fits into Xabi Alonso’s plans at Stamford Bridge, warning that the Spaniard could become a liability if asked to play out from the back.
Alonso is expected to officially begin work as Chelsea manager in July, inheriting a squad packed with talent but still facing uncertainty in the goalkeeping department.
Sanchez shared goalkeeping duties with Filip Jorgensen last season, although the Danish goalkeeper struggled for regular opportunities and has reportedly asked to leave the club this summer.
With Jorgensen expected to depart, Sanchez appears set for a clearer path to the number one position.
However, doubts remain over whether his style suits Alonso’s preferred tactical approach.
The former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen coach has built a reputation for teams that are comfortable in possession and capable of building attacks from the back.
Leboeuf believes that aspect of the game could create problems for Sanchez.
He said: “I don’t like to say that anyone should go.
“He’s a great goalkeeper, but when he’s with his feet, he’s a danger to his own team.
“When Donnarumma signed for Manchester City, he had the same problem, and Pep Guardiola managed to settle into a new system to make sure that Donnarumma doesn’t play with his feet too much. And so it might be possible.
“But I’m not sure Alonso will want to change his style for one player, so they might look to replace him.”
The debate over Chelsea’s goalkeeping position comes as highly-rated youngster Mike Penders prepares to join the first-team squad.
Penders impressed during a loan spell at Strasbourg, where he was regarded as one of the standout performers in the Conference League campaign.
The Belgian goalkeeper has also earned a place in his country’s World Cup squad, where he is expected to gain valuable experience alongside established number one Thibaut Courtois.
Although a move into the Chelsea starting line-up would represent a major step for the young goalkeeper, the club are understood to have high hopes for his future development.
With Alonso set to take charge ahead of the new season, the battle for Chelsea’s number one position remains one of the key issues to be resolved at Stamford Bridge.
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