Xabi Alonso Comments on the Future of Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Enzo Fernandez will feature in tomorrow's Carabao Cup clash against Luton. The Argentine midfielder is reportedly a target for Manchester City, with English media outlets suggesting today that the Citizens are preparing a £120 million bid for his services. Fernandez also came on as a substitute against Fulham on Monday in Chelsea's opening match of the season.

“Yes, we expect him to play. He’s trained well, he’s a good professional, and he will be included,” Alonso stated.

When asked if he expects the Argentine to remain with the team, the manager replied: “We want to have the best possible squad. We know his qualities, and he has shown them. We have to wait, but right now we are focused on tomorrow’s match. We will see how things develop.”

Regarding Pedro Neto, who is also rumored to be leaving, and whether he feels comfortable in the wing-back role, as he has been utilized by the Spaniard, Alonso added: “Wing-back, winger, you can call it what you want. The main thing is the quality of the players and having balance. I won’t go into too many details about discussions. We want to have the best possible squad, and we will see what happens.”

The Spaniard also provided an update on the fitness of Moises Caicedo and Marco Palestra, both of whom missed the Fulham game due to injuries. “Neither of them will be available for tomorrow. We’ll see, hopefully Moises can make it for the weekend. For Marco, we still need to check a few things.”