Enzo Fernandez, Chelsea’s big-money signing from Benfica for £107 million, is facing a major crisis, and is turning out to be one of the biggest flops.
As Chelsea prepares to take on Manchester United at Old Trafford this Sunday, it seems highly likely that he will be sitting on the bench. This isn`t a shock to fans who have watched his recent performances.
Despite being named vice-captain just a few months ago, Fernandez has lost his spot in the starting lineup under coach Enzo Maresca.
The team appears to be moving on without him, and he is in real danger of being left behind if he doesn’t turn things around quickly.
A Troubling Start
The season has been a disaster for Fernandez, who made headlines for all the wrong reasons before it even began.
During Argentina’s Copa America victory celebrations, he live-streamed himself and his teammates singing a racist chant about the French national team.
The chant included nasty remarks about players’ backgrounds and was met with immediate outrage.
His Chelsea teammates, especially those of Afro-French descent, reacted strongly by unfollowing him on social media.
Defender Wesley Fofana called the incident "unabashed racism."
Fernandez quickly issued an apology, claiming he stands against discrimination and that this behavior doesn’t represent who he is.
But the damage was done—he faced disciplinary action from Chelsea and a FIFA investigation.
Even though some teammates have forgiven him, it’s clear that this incident has negatively impacted his game.
On the Field: Underperforming
When it comes to football, Fernandez has been a disappointment.
His performances have been inconsistent, and he has not lived up to the massive expectations that come with his price tag.
He started the season well, especially while his teammate Romeo Lavia was sidelined with an injury.
But now that Lavia is back, Fernandez has been dropped from the starting XI.
In recent matches against Liverpool and Newcastle, Lavia has been chosen instead of him.
Maresca has adjusted his tactics for better defensive stability, and Fernandez, who is supposed to be a playmaker, has yet to score or assist this season.
His pass completion rate is worryingly low at just 80.7%, and there are serious doubts about whether he has the stamina or toughness to play effectively as a defensive midfielder.
Fans have been supportive but are starting to lose patience.
Recent stats show Chelsea wins only 35% of games with him in the lineup compared to 81% without him.
That’s not good enough for a player who cost so much money.
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Coach’s Confidence
Maresca insists he still believes in Fernandez, but it’s hard to see why.
He claims the decision to bench him is tactical, saying that he has 100% confidence in the player.
Yet, this seems more like wishful thinking than sound strategy.
Fernandez needs to prove he belongs on the pitch, and Maresca’s faith may not last much longer if he continues to struggle.
The coach has mentioned that the huge pressure from his transfer fee might be weighing on Fernandez.
While that’s understandable, professional players should be able to handle pressure, especially someone with a hefty price tag like Fernandez.
Personal Problems
Fernandez`s off-field issues could also be impacting his performance.
His wife, Valentina Cervantes, recently announced on social media that they are separating.
Although they plan to co-parent their two children, this personal upheaval could easily distract him.
Reports suggest that he wants to experience living independently, which is strange considering he is already a father.
To make matters worse, he has also faced driving disqualifications and fines, which likely add to his stress.
All these distractions seem to be affecting his focus and performance during games.
His recent showing against Newcastle was particularly poor.
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He led the `B team` to a disappointing Carabao Cup loss, making 22 mistakes in passes alone.
Footage of his struggles went viral, and many fans are fed up, calling for his departure from the club.
After the defeat, Maresca acknowledged that the team lost control during the match but was careful not to place the blame entirely on Fernandez.
This is a crucial moment for him—he must step up or risk being labeled as a flop.
Looking Ahead
Maresca has a big task ahead to help Fernandez find his form amidst all this chaos.
It’s strange to have such a high-priced player on the bench, and fans are eager for him to prove his worth.
Some supporters are already calling for the club to sell him, especially with rumors linking him to Real Madrid and potential swap deals.
If Chelsea receives an offer around £80 million, they might seriously consider it.
However, given his status as a marquee signing for the club under new ownership, management may hesitate to cut their losses.
Fernandez has shown glimpses of his talent, but now is the time for him to step up and carve out his role.
If he doesn’t, his future at Chelsea could be in jeopardy.
