Chelsea's Martinez Ditches Terry's Number 26 for No.1 After Sanchez Loan
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Chelsea's newly signed goalkeeper Damian Martinez has changed his squad number from 26 to 1 after Robert Sanchez completed his loan move to Como, leaving the iconic number 1 vacant at Stamford Bridge. Martinez wore the legendary number 26 — previously worn by Blues captain John Terry — for just one match, a 4-3 victory over Brighton in which he conceded three goals. The club has announced that Martinez will personally sign the "error edition" 26 shirts for affected supporters who bought them through official channels, with fans required to bring proof of purchase to the stadium by October 4.
Key Points
- Damian Martinez joined Chelsea last week and made his debut against Brighton on Saturday
- The Argentine goalkeeper chose number 26 to honor John Terry, who wore it during his legendary Chelsea career
- After Sanchez's loan departure to Como freed up the number 1 jersey, Martinez switched to the traditional first-choice goalkeeper number
- Chelsea won the Brighton match 4-3 despite Martinez conceding three goals in his debut performance
- Affected fans can have their 26 shirts signed by Martinez at Stamford Bridge by October 4, 2026
- Martinez had previously contacted Terry before choosing the number, with Terry expressing delight at seeing him at Chelsea
- Chelsea face a crucial London derby against Arsenal away on Sunday, September 6
Why It Matters
The rapid number change underscores the competitive pressures facing new signings at top Premier League clubs, where every detail — from squad numbers to debut performances — comes under intense scrutiny. For Chelsea fans who rushed to buy the Martinez 26 shirt, the situation has created an unusual collector's item that could become more valuable following Martinez's offer to sign them as a goodwill gesture .
The rapid number change underscores the competitive pressures facing new signings at top Premier League clubs, where every detail — from squad numbers to debut performances — comes under intense scrutiny. For Chelsea fans who rushed to buy the Martinez 26 shirt, the situation has created an unusual collector's item that could become more valuable following Martinez's offer to sign them as a goodwill gesture .