Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso determined to retain Enzo Fernandez
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has expressed his clear intention to keep midfielder Enzo Fernandez at the club. Alonso’s stance comes despite reports indicating Fernandez’s desire to leave and previous links to Real Madrid.
During his first press conference as Chelsea coach, Alonso addressed the situation surrounding the Argentina international, who is currently participating in the World Cup. When questioned about Fernandez’s future, Alonso confirmed that he had spoken with the player, stating, “We spoke, but what we spoke about remains private.” However, his response was more direct when asked if he wished to retain Fernandez, simply replying, “Yeah.”
Fernandez’s reported desire to leave
Fernandez had been heavily associated with a move to Real Madrid and was suspended by Chelsea for two matches last season. This suspension followed comments he made expressing a wish to reside in Madrid in the future. Despite these comments, Real Madrid issued a statement earlier in the month denying any intention to sign the midfielder.
The Spanish club’s statement clarified, “Real Madrid regrets that, despite the clarity of the facts and the lack of any action on the part of the club, information continues to be disseminated that does not correspond to reality and that only contributes to generating confusion among fans and unnecessarily harming the entities and people involved.” This public denial from Real Madrid has seemingly altered the landscape regarding Fernandez’s potential departure from Stamford Bridge.
Although Fernandez’s actions may not have endeared him to all Chelsea supporters, Alonso’s remarks suggest that the door remains open for his return to the team. With Real Madrid publicly withdrawing their interest, and no other clubs reportedly stepping forward with offers matching Chelsea’s valuation, it appears increasingly likely that Fernandez will remain with the club for the upcoming season.
The midfielder is currently with the Argentina national team, preparing for a semi-final match against England in the World Cup. Upon his return from the tournament, he is expected to begin working under his new coach, Xabi Alonso.
Other player movements at Chelsea
While Alonso is keen to keep Fernandez, other player movements are anticipated at Chelsea. Winger Alejandro Garnacho appears to be on his way out of Stamford Bridge this summer. Garnacho has not been involved in Chelsea’s pre-season preparations, with discussions ongoing regarding a potential transfer away from the club.
Alonso commented on Garnacho’s situation, stating, “We have spoken with the sporting directors and there is interest from him, from other clubs, so let’s see how it develops. Hopefully it finishes in the best possible way for all parties.”
In contrast, striker Nicolas Jackson could remain at Chelsea. Jackson has returned to the club following a loan spell at Bayern Munich last season. Alonso confirmed that Jackson is expected to join the team’s tour in Asia, indicating his inclusion in the manager’s plans. Alonso expressed anticipation for Jackson’s involvement, saying, “He will join the tour in Asia and we’re looking forward to starting with Nico at that time.”
Meanwhile, Manchester United have reportedly finalized a £48m deal for Andrey Santos from Chelsea. United are also said to be nearing the signing of Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, after a move for Ederson was postponed. Aston Villa themselves are reportedly looking at a number of wingers as their summer transfer activity continues.
The focus for Chelsea, however, remains on the immediate future of Enzo Fernandez, with Alonso’s determination to keep him at the club being a key point of discussion as the new season approaches.
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Source: skysports.com