Chelsea hand Martinez first start against Brighton hours after completing transfer

Chelsea gave Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez his first start against Brighton in the second week of the English Premier League, roughly four hours after announcing his signing. The decision moved Spanish keeper Robert Sanchez to the bench as Martinez went straight into the starting lineup. Martinez, who won the 2022 World Cup with Argentina, had not played in Aston Villa's opening two matches this season before his move to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea said the 32-year-old had signed a contract running through 2029. The London club opened its Premier League campaign with a 3-2 win over Fulham and quickly turned to its new signing, giving Martinez an early first appearance in goal just hours after the transfer was confirmed.