Alonso backs Fernandez amid transfer talk
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has praised Enzo Fernandez's attitude in training, saying the midfielder is a Chelsea player and focused on the upcoming Premier League opener against Fulham. Alonso's comments come amid ongoing speculation linking Fernandez with a move to Manchester City, who are managed by his former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca.[S1][S2][S3]
Chelsea and Javier Pastore, the agent of Enzo Fernandez, agreed in May that the Argentine midfielder could depart for £120 million, with a bidding deadline of August 14. Despite no official bid by that date, recent reports indicate that Manchester City still hopes to sign Fernandez before the September 1 transfer window closure.[S1][S2][S4]
Fernandez's future remains uncertain
Xabi Alonso was asked if Enzo Fernandez had expressed a desire to remain at Chelsea, but Alonso sidestepped the question. He instead praised Fernandez's positive mindset and dedication in training, noting that the player has seamlessly reintegrated into the team following his World Cup experience, where he received a red card in the final against Spain.[S3][S5]
Enzo Fernandez's connection with Chelsea supporters has been a complex one, with a range of responses during his time on the pitch. This was evident when he entered a friendly match against Real Sociedad, where he received audible boos from the crowd. However, the team's decision to give him the captain's armband when he substituted Reece James highlights his significant role within the team.[S1][S2][S4]
City's midfield revamp and Chelsea's stance
Manchester City are seeking midfield reinforcements following the departures of Rodri to Barcelona and Bernardo Silva. They're also negotiating a potential £85 million deal for Morocco's Ayyoub Bouaddi. Spanish sources indicate that Chelsea is still open to selling Enzo Fernandez, and they've engaged Jorge Mendes to facilitate the transfer.[S1][S2]
Alonso expressed satisfaction with Chelsea's transfer business, saying the club has made the right decisions in strengthening the squad. He also downplayed the significance of facing Fulham, managed by his close friend Alvaro Arbeloa, insisting that once on the pitch, there are no friends, just the 90 minutes of competition.[S3][S5]
