Mike Penders

Penders is back with Chelsea's squad in Hong Kong after his participation with Belgium at the World Cup, where he did not register a single minute, the club announced.

Analysis: Penders' shot-stopping and composure with the ball at his feet have marked him as one of the more promising young goalkeepers in the pipeline, and Robert Sanchez's current injury issue opens the door for him to make an early case for a bigger role. Sanchez remains the club's number one for now, but Penders' return gives him a real opportunity to press his claim heading into the new season. Penders is expected to continue building up his fitness as he looks to seize this chance in Chelsea's goalkeeping rotation.

Jul 3, 2026

Heads back to Chelsea

Penders will return to parent club Chelsea following the conclusion of his loan spell at Strasbourg.

Analysis: Penders was an ever-present figure for Strasbourg last season, making 33 Ligue 1 starts across 2,970 minutes, recording 108 saves and eight clean sheets while conceding 47 goals and saving one penalty. Penders will head back to Chelsea after playing the World Cup with Belgium where his future under new coach Xabi Alonso will be determined heading into the 2026/27 season, with his outstanding campaign in France making a strong case for a bigger role at senior level.

Mike Penders

Ranking

Grades

Key Grades

2026/2027 Premier League

Overall Grades by game

2026/2027 Premier League

Metrics

Key Metrics

Upcoming matches

News

Returns to Chelsea squad

Heads back to Chelsea

Social media

Select Player