Enzo Fernandez’s absence in Chelsea’s win over Luton explained
Xabi Alonso says Enzo Fernandez was left out of Chelsea’s win over Luton to give other players minutes, despite growing Manchester City transfer speculation.
Enzo Fernandez’s absence from Chelsea’s 2-0 Carabao Cup victory over Luton Town has attracted considerable attention, particularly with Manchester City reportedly preparing another attempt to sign the Argentina international before the transfer window closes.
Fernandez had been expected to feature after Xabi Alonso indicated the previous day that he would be involved, but the midfielder was ultimately left out of the matchday squad altogether.
Alonso later explained that the decision was made by himself and the club after assessing the squad and deciding that other players needed minutes.
He also insisted that Fernandez remains a “good professional” and has been training well, playing down suggestions that the omission was connected to Manchester City’s interest.
The timing of the decision, however, has inevitably fuelled further speculation. Manchester City are understood to remain interested in Fernandez, with Chelsea valuing the 25-year-old at around £120 million.
City are expected to consider a late offer despite previously missing an informal deadline set by Chelsea.
Fernandez had made a substitute appearance in Chelsea’s opening Premier League fixture against Fulham before being left out against Luton. His omission therefore comes at a particularly significant point in the transfer window, with only days remaining before the deadline.
For now, Alonso’s explanation is that the decision was simply about managing his squad rather than preparing Fernandez for an imminent departure.
Chelsea also progressed comfortably, with Danny Welbeck scoring on his debut before Estêvão’s effort was turned into his own net by Luton defender Hakeem Odoffin.
Yet Fernandez’s situation remains one of the major stories of the final days of the transfer window, with City’s next move potentially determining whether his Chelsea career continues or takes an unexpected turn.
