Tuesday night saw Chelsea finally end their dismal run of seven Premier League games without a win, and Enzo Fernandez was pivotal – proving Xabi Alonso was right to make a demand to BlueCo.
After such an appalling run of defeats, there was a renewed optimism at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night following the appointment of Xabi Alonso. The Spaniard will take over as manager from July 1.
Who was your Man of the Match tonight?
Chelsea v Tottenham Hotspur - Premier League
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Watching from afar, Alonso will have been impressed by elements of Tuesday night’s win. Goals from Enzo Fernandez and Andrey Santos got the job done, too much for Spurs and Richarlison’s late effort.
Santos scored the winner, producing a performance that will have Carlo Ancelotti regretting his move not to include the midfielder in his World Cup squad. Jorrel Hato, Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto impressed.
Enzo Fernandez proves Xabi Alonso right to make BlueCo demand
One of Alonso’s conditions to join Chelsea, according to reports, was that Fernandez would remain at Chelsea in the summer. The Argentine’s future remains in doubt, but Alonso’s arrival may change that.
Cole Palmer says Chelsea’s squad are excited to work with Alonso, and surely, Fernandez will share that feeling. One of the world’s best midfielders, learning from one of the best midfielders to play the game.
Chelsea v Tottenham Hotspur - Premier League
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But if anything was learnt from Tuesday’s win over Tottenham, it was that Chelsea need Fernandez going into next season. His display proved Alonso was right to make his future a priority in talks with BlueCo.
A stunning goal from the best part of 30 yards, followed by a perfectly cushioned assist for Santos to score. Not only did he get a goal and an assist, Fernandez’s tenacity helped Chelsea get over the line.
With a contract until the summer of 2032, the ball is in Chelsea’s court when it comes to Fernandez. The power has been given to Alonso, and if Chelsea can afford not to sell him, he won’t be going anywhere.
What will convince Enzo Fernandez not to seek Chelsea exit
A few weeks ago, Fernandez will have had his heart set on an exit. His comments in the international break suggested as much. But the move to hire Alonso might go some way to changing his mind.
You can only keep one, Enzo Fernandez or Cole Palmer. Who are you choosing?
Tell us who but also why!
TalkingPoints user on Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer
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Champions League football might be off the table, but Europa League qualification gives Chelsea a realistic chance of silverware. Jamie Carragher highlighted the importance of keeping him last night.
According to reports, Fernandez has urged Chelsea to sign Cristian Romero from Tuesday’s opponents. Ultimately, Alonso’s appointment and Europe helps keep Fernandez, as do the right summer signings.
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