Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has taken responsibility for goalkeeper Robert Sanchez’s errors following the Blues’ 3–2 defeat to Arsenal in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea conceded early when Sanchez failed to properly deal with Declan Rice’s seventh-minute corner, allowing Ben White to score from close range. The Arsenal defender was involved again shortly after half-time as his low cross slipped through Sanchez’s hands, enabling Viktor Gyokeres to tap in and double the visitors’ lead.
Martin Zubimendi later made it 3–0 for Mikel Arteta’s side, seemingly putting the tie beyond Chelsea. However, substitute Alejandro Garnacho sparked a late revival with two goals that reduced the deficit and kept the Blues in contention ahead of the return leg at the Emirates Stadium.
Speaking after the match, Rosenior, who was overseeing his first home game as Chelsea manager, defended Sanchez and insisted the goalkeeper was adapting to new tactical instructions.
“It’s a team goal, it’s not just on Rob,” Rosenior said. “I’m asking him to do things he hasn’t done before. When my players make mistakes, I’m accountable — that’s on me.”
He also highlighted Sanchez’s second-half performance, praising a crucial save that prevented Arsenal from extending their lead. “He made a world-class save that could have put us out of the tie. He will improve as his understanding grows,” Rosenior added.
The Chelsea boss revealed that injuries and illness within the squad had disrupted preparations, noting that he had only two days to work with the team before the match.
“That was Rob’s first game with me. I have to put my imprint on the team — that’s why I’m here,” Rosenior said.
