Enzo Fernandez reveals why Maresca helped convince him to join Man City
Enzo Fernandez has underlined Enzo Maresca’s importance to his Manchester City move, with his comments likely to reopen debate over Chelsea’s decision to part ways with the Italian.
Enzo Fernandez has reignited attention surrounding his Chelsea departure after revealing how heavily Enzo Maresca influenced his decision to join Manchester City in a British-record £125 million transfer.
The Argentina international completed his move on deadline day and will now reunite with the manager who previously coached him at Stamford Bridge.
Speaking after the transfer, Fernandez made no secret of his admiration for Maresca, describing him as “a top manager” and recalling the success they enjoyed together in London.
“They were incredible moments. I learned so much with him,” the midfielder said, before explaining just how important Maresca was to the move. “I’m also grateful because he was very important in bringing me here,” Fernandez added.
The comments are particularly significant given that Fernandez had previously expressed disappointment over Chelsea’s decision to part company with Maresca.
Earlier in the year, he said the manager’s departure “hurt us a lot because we had an identity,” arguing that Maresca had established a clear structure and philosophy within the team.
Maresca subsequently became Manchester City’s new head coach following Pep Guardiola’s departure, creating the opportunity for a reunion that ultimately played a major role in Fernandez’s transfer.
Fernandez also stressed that the move was not straightforward, revealing that both he and Maresca were eager to see the deal completed. “We were both very eager for it to happen, because it wasn’t easy for me to be here today,” he said.
His comments do not explicitly criticise Chelsea, but the timing and emphasis on Maresca’s importance could nevertheless be interpreted as an indirect reminder of what Fernandez valued during his time at Stamford Bridge.
The midfielder leaves Chelsea after three-and-a-half years and arrives at City following a standout campaign in which he produced 15 goals and seven assists across all competitions.
Now, with Maresca leading City’s rebuilding project, Fernandez will hope their successful partnership can be revived in Manchester.
