Premier League Sunday Action: Emi Martínez Thrown Straight In for Chelsea Debut as Sunday Fixtures Take Center Stage

In a dramatic move on Sunday morning, Argentina’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez was named directly to Chelsea’s starting lineup to make his club debut against Brighton & Hove Albion.

The 33-year-old’s £7.5 million transfer from Aston Villa was finalized on Sunday morning, and head coach Xabi Alonso wasted no time thrusting the shot-stopper straight into action at Stamford Bridge. Martínez replaces Robert Sánchez, who was omitted from the squad entirely ahead of deadline day.

Martínez's whirlwind debut headlines an explosive Sunday slate in the Premier League, with three other high-stakes Matchweek 2 encounters taking place across the country.

Debut Details: Emi Martínez Starts for Chelsea vs. Brighton

Immediate Integration: With Premier League registration approved just hours after signing his three-year contract through 2029, Martínez took his place between the posts for Chelsea's home opener against Brighton.

Squad Omissions: Alonso left former Seagulls goalkeeper Robert Sánchez out of the matchday 20, while midfielder Enzo Fernández was also omitted amidst ongoing transfer talks with Manchester City. Summer signing Mike Penders takes his place on the bench.

Starting Blues XI: Martínez (GK); Wesley Fofana, Maxence Lacroix, Levi Colwill (C); Pedro Neto, Malo Gusto, Romeo Lavia, Jorrel Hato; Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers; João Pedro.

Complete Premier League Sunday Schedule

Alongside Chelsea’s battle against Brighton, three additional fixtures wrap up Matchweek 2.

Fixture	Stadium Venue	Kickoff (CEST)	Key Context / Narrative
Chelsea vs. Brighton & Hove Albion	Stamford Bridge, London	15:00 CEST	Emi Martínez makes immediate Blues debut following £7.5m move.
Leeds United vs. Brentford	Elland Road, Leeds	15:00 CEST	Elland Road hosts a crucial early-season mid-table encounter.
Sunderland vs. Fulham	Stadium of Light, Sunderland	15:00 CEST	Promoted Black Cats search for points against Marco Silva's Cottagers.
Manchester United vs. Ipswich Town	Old Trafford, Stretford	17:30 CEST	Red Devils target quick rebound at home following opening-day defeat.