Rossinier Confirms Enzo Fernandez Out Against City, States: Pep Has Influenced Everyone

Chelsea manager Liam Rossinier began his press conference today by confirming that vice-captain Enzo Fernandez will once again be absent from the squad for Sunday's clash against Manchester City. The Argentine star gave an interview after the Blues' Champions League exit to PSG, stating he was unsure if he would remain at Stamford Bridge next season. This was not well-received by the club's hierarchy, who imposed a two-match suspension. The midfielder missed the FA Cup tie against Port Vale and will now sit out the game against the Citizens.

“We cannot overlook the imposed punishment for the mistake. This sanction was applied, and I agreed with it. He will not play on Sunday. I've had several really good conversations with Enzo; he apologized to me and the club, and we want to move forward together after Sunday's match. I have never questioned his character or who he is as a person. I believe people make mistakes, and I want him to move past this to have a great career. There are still a few things that need to be overcome, but I won't go into detail. Every player of ours must be focused on their performance. Football is a team sport, and it's not about individuals. There are specific values and a culture that make a team stronger if things are done correctly,” Rossinier explained.

The former Strasbourg coach expressed immense respect for Josep Guardiola and his achievements at Manchester City, as well as his overall impact on football.

“My ego isn't so big that I don't respect people. Pep has influenced everyone in football. He has won trophies everywhere, but he also changed football. He was also given enough time to build a style. He is an incredible coach with a fantastic career, but I want my team to show what they are capable of on Sunday. We must not switch off for a moment, because City will punish us immediately. These are three points that would bring us closer to our goal, which is Champions League qualification. That's all we are focused on right now. There are teams fighting relegation, those in mid-table, and teams fighting for the top, but that doesn't matter. In England, every match is tough. On Sunday, we face a big challenge, but I'm looking forward to it,” the Chelsea manager commented on their opponent.

Rossinier shared his satisfaction with the break, as it provided time to work with the team, and delivered positive news regarding some of the squad's injured players.

“For the first time since I've been here, I've had two consecutive days where we could train normally. I don't think even a magician could make a team look the way he wants in the time I've had so far. When a manager comes in January, he has something like 20 games in 20 weeks. You try to get to know the players, assess the situation, but it's difficult for everyone. For me, it's important to use our time as best as possible. I know how I want the team to look. It might take time, but it cannot come at the expense of short-term goals. It's positive that Estevao got 90 minutes against Port Vale. Trevoh Chalobah is working hard to return. Levi Colwill is training at full pace, but still has some things to overcome. Reece James is already running, which is good. I have a good squad and I'm ready to face Manchester City,” Rossinier concluded.