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Following their fifth loss in six matches, Chelsea has reinstated vice-captain Enzo Fernandez. The World Cup winner had been dropped from the squad by manager Liam Rosenior for two games due to comments made during the Argentina national team camp. In three interviews, the midfielder hinted at an interest in a move to Madrid amidst speculation linking him with Spanish giants Real Madrid.
“Enzo has spoken with me, with the leadership group, and with all the other players, and now we look forward to welcoming him back into our ranks,” Rosenior stated.
The 25-year-old missed the FA Cup victory against Port Vale and Sunday’s 0-3 home defeat to Manchester City.
“I’m looking forward to having him back in the squad next weekend (against Manchester United – editor’s note),” the manager continued. “Sometimes you make decisions that aren’t based on the short-term effect, but on what you want to see in the long term. This was a long-term decision, made by me, the directors, and the club, in conjunction with the player leadership group, to ensure our values and culture are in the right place for the future.”
When asked if Chelsea could have benefited from Fernandez’s presence on Sunday, the coach replied: “Could have, could have.”
“The hurdle I spoke about was that Enzo wanted to have a conversation with the leadership group – the key players – and to speak with the entire squad,” Rosenior further explained.
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