Frank Leboeuf Tears Into Robert Sanchez and Brands Eze a Passenger After Arsenal Beat Chelsea

Frank Leboeuf didn’t hold his criticism of Sanchez distribution and labels Eze a “passenger” after 2-1 Emirates clash.

Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf was blunt in his criticism after Arsenal defeated Chelsea 2-1 in a tense Premier League derby at the Emirates Stadium, criticizing both Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and Arsenal’s Eberechi Eze.

While the result boosted Arsenal’s title charge and damaged Chelsea’s hopes of a top-four finish, Leboeuf singled out two players for heavy criticism: Robert Sanchez and Eberechi Eze.

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Speaking on ESPN after the match, the 1998 World Cup winner questioned Sanchez’s ability to play out from the back and labelled Eze a “passenger” in a contest largely decided by set-pieces.

Arsenal took the lead through William Saliba, who powered home a header from a corner in the first half. Chelsea equalised before the break when a defensive mix-up resulted in a Piero Hincapié own goal.

The decisive moment arrived in the 66th minute. Jurriën Timber attacked another Arsenal corner and headed past Sanchez, who misjudged the flight of the ball under pressure.

Chelsea’s situation worsened when Pedro Neto was sent off for a second yellow card. Despite their numerical disadvantage, the visitors pushed late, but David Raya produced a crucial save to preserve Arsenal’s lead.

The victory restored Arsenal’s five-point advantage at the top of the table, while Chelsea slipped further behind in the race for Champions League qualification.

Leboeuf Slams Sanchez’s Distribution, Brands Eze a “Passenger

Leboeuf was particularly critical of Sanchez’s decision-making in possession.

“He’s a very good goalkeeper and made some good saves today,” he said. “But we have to stop telling him that he’s capable of playing out from the back.”

He continued: “He’s bad with his feet. He scares everybody. Every time he gets the ball, it’s a danger. You are putting everybody in danger.”

The former Chelsea defender also highlighted what he saw as a clear contrast between Sanchez and Raya, suggesting that difference reflected the gap between the two teams overall.

Attention then turned to Eze, who struggled to influence proceedings in attacking areas.

“Where was Eze?” Leboeuf asked. “He was a real passenger. We know he can be influential, but it’s like he wasn’t even trying to do anything.”

Leboeuf suggested Arsenal needed more cutting edge in the final third, particularly against ten men, and questioned whether changes should have been made earlier to inject urgency.

Bigger Questions for Both Sides

For Arsenal, the win once again underlined their resilience and strength from set-pieces — a decisive weapon throughout the season.

For Chelsea, familiar concerns remain. Sanchez’s composure under pressure continues to draw scrutiny, and defensive lapses at corners proved costly once again.

Both sides return to Premier League action midweek, with Arsenal facing another important test and Chelsea looking to stabilise their campaign.

Leboeuf’s blunt verdict has sparked debate, but as the season enters its decisive stretch, performances — and mistakes — will define how both clubs are judged.

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