Enzo Fernandez has been dropped ahead of Chelsea's FA Cup clash with Port Vale as Liam Rosenior admits he "crossed the line" by talking up a move away from the club
Enzo Fernandez won't feature for Chelsea this weekend
Enzo Fernandez won't feature for Chelsea this weekend(Image: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
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Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior has confirmed that Enzo Fernandez will miss this weekend's FA Cup tie against Port Vale after "a line was crossed" with the Argentine continuing to talk up a move away.
The midfielder is usually a regular in the middle of the park, but will be overlooked for this weekend's game as he's linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Fernandez moved to Stamford Bridge for a club-record fee in the aftermath of the World Cup in 2022 and has been a key figure. In recent weeks he's refused to commit himself to the west Londoners, admitting he would review his future after this summer's World Cup.
He's since talked up Madrid as a great place to live. Fernandez said: “I’d like to live in Spain. I really like Madrid; it reminds me of Buenos Aires. Players live where they want. I’d live in Madrid. I get by in English, but I’d be more comfortable in Spanish.”
Rosenior has attempted to defend his player when having to address his future, but concedes he had to act in light of his recent remarks.
The Bluess head coach said: "I spoke with Enzo. As part of the football club, he won't be available for tomorrow or Manchester City. It's disappointing to speak in that way. As a character and person, I have no bad words. But a line was crossed. We had to make a sanction."
Real has long been an attractive place to play for South American players. They currently boast a number of Brazil's leading lights, including Vinicius Jnr. Chelsea would be loathed to lose Fernandez, who has formed an impressive midfield partnership with Moises Caicedo.
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