Enzo Fernández’s future at Chelsea has come under renewed scrutiny after the Argentine midfielder was left out of the squad for the Carabao Cup second-round match against Luton.
Fernández had reportedly made it clear before the summer that he wanted to leave Stamford Bridge. His omission was personally decided by Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso, who said it was based solely on sporting considerations.
“The decision not to call him up was mine”
Xabi Alonso
Alonso played down the significance of the absence and described Fernández as a “very professional” footballer who has continued to train well. He said the decision was linked to squad management, player minutes and the specific demands of the match.
“It was simply because of today’s match. We have other players who need minutes”
Alonso explained at the press conference after Chelsea’s win against Luton.
Asked when he had decided to leave Fernández out, Alonso replied:
“Wednesday afternoon. It was a decision I made myself”.
Enzo is a good professional. He is training well and I have nothing to say about that
Xabi Alonso
The Chelsea manager also left the door open for Fernández to return in the next Premier League fixture, when Chelsea host Brighton at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
“Enzo is a good professional. He is training well and I have nothing to say about that. They are simply decisions we have to make with the match we were playing tonight in mind. We’ll see on Sunday”.
Fernández’s omission has gained further significance following reports in England that Manchester City are interested in signing the midfielder. According to Sky Sports, the club is considering making an offer before the transfer window closes on Tuesday at 11:00 p.m.
Reports also indicate that Chelsea are willing to listen to offers for the Argentine international.