Enzo Fernandez will not feature in Chelsea FC’s upcoming home match against Manchester City, even after issuing an apology for his recent remarks. Head coach Liam Rosenior confirmed that the midfielder remains unavailable as the club has chosen not to alter its initial disciplinary action.
Enzo Fernandez will not feature in Chelsea FC’s upcoming home match against Manchester City, even after issuing an apology for his recent remarks. Head coach Liam Rosenior confirmed that the midfielder remains unavailable as the club has chosen not to alter its initial disciplinary action.
The Argentine was handed a two-game internal suspension following comments made during the international break, in which he spoke positively about the city of Madrid. The situation drew attention due to ongoing links with Real Madrid.
Although Fernandez and the club have since held discussions and the player expressed regret, the punishment will stand in full. Rosenior explained that he had several conversations with the midfielder and acknowledged the apology but emphasized that the matter would be addressed further after the weekend’s important fixture.
Fernandez’s representative, Javier Pastore, indicated earlier that tensions had eased following talks with the club. There had been hopes that the suspension might be reduced after the player missed the FA Cup victory over Port Vale, but that has not been the case.
Rosenior described the situation as serious, stressing that the decision was made carefully and remains unchanged. He made clear that the sanction was his responsibility and reiterated his long-term expectations for Fernandez to succeed at the club.
Despite maintaining a positive relationship with the player, the manager revealed that certain matters are still unresolved. He declined to provide details but noted that some issues must be settled before any final conclusions are drawn.
Chelsea currently sits sixth in the Premier League standings, just one point behind Liverpool FC, who occupy the final Champions League qualification place. Rosenior dismissed suggestions that enforcing the suspension could harm the team, insisting that discipline and focus remain priorities.
While Fernandez will miss the clash with Manchester City, the coach expressed hope that he will soon return and play a key role in the remainder of the campaign. He added that the squad must stay fully concentrated during an important run of matches.
Looking ahead, Rosenior expects Fernandez to be available for the home fixture against Manchester United on 18 April. Meanwhile, Reece James, Trevoh Chalobah, and Levi Colwill will also be absent for the upcoming encounter with Pep Guardiola’s side.
