Enzo Fernandez's struggle to fit into Enzo Maresca's Chelsea vision
When Chelsea face Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, the glaring absence of Enzo Fernandez from the starting line-up is unlikely to shock fans. The World Cup-winning midfielder, who joined Chelsea from Benfica for a staggering £107 million in January 2023, has encountered a stormy spell both on and off the pitch this season.
Fernandez, appointed vice-captain in the summer, seemed a natural leader for the evolving Chelsea squad. However, inconsistent performances, a controversial social media incident, and personal challenges now risk sidelining the Argentine from Maresca’s immediate plans.
Troubled Start and Off-Field Distractions
Before the Premier League even kicked off, Fernandez found himself in hot water. During Argentina's Copa America celebrations, he live-streamed a video featuring a chant with racial and transphobic slurs targeting the French national team. Backlash was swift, with teammates, including Wesley Fofana, unfollowing Fernandez on social media, calling the video "unabashed racism." Fernandez later apologized, claiming he got "caught up in the euphoria," but the episode left a mark.
Adding to his troubles, Fernandez recently announced a separation from his wife, Valentina Cervantes, with whom he shares two children. Reports suggest the separation stems from Fernandez’s desire for independence—a phase he feels he missed due to early family commitments. Alongside personal struggles, he also received a driving ban and fine, compounding a season already fraught with challenges.
A Midfield Struggle
While Fernandez's performances haven’t been entirely lackluster, his inability to maintain form has led to his recent demotion. His role as a deep-lying playmaker has not yielded the expected results; his pass completion rate has fallen to a concerning 80.7%, and he has yet to contribute a goal or assist in the league this season. Additionally, Chelsea's win rate with him in the squad is notably lower, fueling criticism among fans.
The resurgence of Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo has pushed Fernandez down the pecking order. Maresca, meanwhile, has adjusted his tactics to prioritize defensive solidity, relying on Lavia and Caicedo’s physicality, while Cole Palmer has thrived as a No.10, further limiting Fernandez’s role in the 4-3-3 setup.
The Weight of a Price Tag
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca recently addressed the impact of Fernandez’s hefty transfer fee on his confidence and consistency. "The price should not be a problem for them," Maresca said, acknowledging the pressure associated with Fernandez’s record-breaking fee but emphasizing the tactical need for “balance” in the midfield.
Finding His Place or Facing a Transfer?
Fernandez’s lackluster performance in Chelsea's recent Carabao Cup loss to Newcastle only intensified scrutiny. Following the game, Maresca admitted that Chelsea lost control after conceding, hinting at Fernandez’s role in the slump. With fans calling for his sale amid rumored interest from Real Madrid, a potential £80 million offer in the summer could tempt Chelsea’s hierarchy.
For now, the Argentine’s future at Stamford Bridge hangs in the balance. Whether Chelsea opts for tactical adjustments to reintroduce him into the starting eleven or ultimately decides to offload their marquee signing, Fernandez faces a critical juncture. Only by regaining form can he hope to secure his place and deliver on his once-promising potential at Chelsea.
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