As Chelsea prepares to face Liverpool this Sunday, all eyes will be on Enzo Fernandez and his potential impact on the match. The Argentinian midfielder’s performance on international duty has heightened expectations among Blues fans, especially following his standout display in Argentina’s recent 6-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Bolivia.
A New Role for Fernandez
In that match, Fernandez was deployed in a deeper midfield role, showcasing his ability to dictate play and control the game from the back. This performance has prompted Chelsea supporters to call for manager Enzo Maresca to consider adjusting Fernandez’s position within the team. Since joining Chelsea for a staggering £107 million in January 2023, Fernandez has often found himself playing in an advanced position, a role that has not always brought out the best in his game.
Despite his hefty price tag, Fernandez has experienced mixed fortunes at Stamford Bridge. Since his arrival, he has made 70 appearances and scored seven goals, but the overall impact has often been seen as underwhelming given the expectations that accompanied his transfer.
A Complicated Departure from Benfica
Fernandez’s move from Benfica to Chelsea was met with controversy, particularly in Portugal, where fans felt betrayed after his rapid exit following a stellar season. He had only joined Benfica from River Plate the previous June and had quickly made a name for himself, being named the Primeira Liga’s Midfielder of the Month multiple times before the World Cup.
His exceptional performances in Qatar, culminating in Argentina’s triumph, persuaded Chelsea to meet his release clause, setting a British transfer record at the time that was broken shortly after by teammate Moises Caicedo. Yet, the echoes of his departure still resonate, and Fernandez himself has not shied away from acknowledging his complicated feelings about it.
After Chelsea’s dramatic 4-2 win over Brighton last month, Fernandez reached out to his former Benfica fans, expressing regret over how his departure was handled. “Let me say hello to the Benfica fans, who always send messages and remember me. I didn’t like the way I left the club, but I’m very grateful to the club and everyone for all the support they give me,” he shared. His comments hinted at a longing for the connections he forged during his time in Portugal, emphasizing the respect he still holds for his former club and teammates.
Manager’s Confidence
Despite the fluctuating form, Maresca has maintained confidence in Fernandez’s abilities. He has refuted suggestions that the midfielder is unhappy at Chelsea and defended his decision to utilize him in an advanced role. “Enzo at this moment is playing on the ball as an attacking midfielder and off the ball as a holding midfielder,” Maresca explained. “He is doing very good with us, and the idea is to continue with that.”
This duality in roles may provide Fernandez with the versatility to adapt to different match situations, but fans hope to see more consistent performances that mirror his international success.
What’s at Stake
Heading into the match against Liverpool, Chelsea sits fourth in the Premier League, just four points off the leaders. A strong performance from Fernandez could not only bolster his confidence but also solidify Chelsea’s position in the top four. The Blues will be looking to capitalize on Liverpool’s vulnerabilities, and a commanding display from Fernandez could be the catalyst they need.
As fans eagerly anticipate Sunday’s clash, all eyes will be on Enzo Fernandez. Will he deliver a performance that not only impresses Chelsea supporters but also reassures them of his immense potential? A strong showing against a historic rival like Liverpool could mark a turning point in his career at Chelsea and a step toward fulfilling the promise that initially led the club to invest so heavily in him.