Chelsea fans erupted in celebration after a dominant 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup final, with Robert Sanchez earning the Golden Glove for a standout performance that helped seal the title. The Spanish shot-stopper delivered his best game in a Chelsea shirt, making crucial saves in New York to deny PSG and secure the club’s historic win.
However, not everyone is fully convinced by Sanchez’s heroics — especially former Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel.
🧤 Robert Sanchez Wins Golden Glove After Heroic Display Against PSG
The 26-year-old goalkeeper was in inspired form on Sunday night, producing a string of brilliant saves to keep a clean sheet in the final. His confident handling, sharp reflexes, and composure under pressure earned him the Golden Glove award and widespread praise from fans and pundits alike.
For many supporters, it was a breakthrough moment for Sanchez, who has faced criticism since his arrival from Brighton. His performance against PSG showed why Chelsea initially backed him as their No.1.
❗ Mikel Obi: "Chelsea Still Need a New Goalkeeper"
Despite Sanchez’s standout showing, John Obi Mikel remains unconvinced. Speaking during post-match analysis on DAZN, the former Chelsea midfielder doubled down on his belief that the club must still look for a new first-choice keeper.
When fellow pundit Gareth Bale suggested that Chelsea may no longer need a replacement, Mikel firmly disagreed:
“No, no, no, we are still buying a goalkeeper. I’m still not convinced with Sanchez at all. But let’s give him credit — he had a great game today, I’ll give him that.”
📉 Sanchez's Past Inconsistencies Still Raise Concerns
While Sanchez’s performance in the final was world-class, consistency remains the biggest question mark. Last season, the Spanish international led the Premier League in errors leading to goals — a stat that continues to concern both fans and analysts.
His mistake-prone displays throughout the campaign have led many, including Mikel, to believe that Chelsea should still pursue a more reliable long-term option in goal.
🔁 Missed Opportunity: Chelsea Passed on Mike Maignan
Earlier this summer, Chelsea were linked with AC Milan’s Mike Maignan, one of Europe’s most highly-rated goalkeepers. However, talks reportedly broke down due to Milan’s high asking price — leaving Sanchez in pole position to remain Mauricio Pochettino’s first-choice heading into the 2025/26 season.
Unless Chelsea re-enter the market before the transfer window closes, Sanchez will likely retain his starting role, with backup options still lacking elite-level experience.
⚠️ What This Means for Chelsea's Goalkeeping Future
Despite lifting silverware and earning personal accolades, Robert Sanchez still has work to do to win over his critics and cement his role at Stamford Bridge. Mikel’s comments echo a broader sentiment across the fanbase: one brilliant performance doesn’t erase a season full of uncertainty.
Chelsea may continue to monitor goalkeeper options — with names like Maignan, Diogo Costa, and Giorgi Mamardashvili still on the radar — especially if Sanchez fails to build on his Club World Cup success.