August 18 – A Chelsea supporter unfurled a Falkland Islands flag as Enzo Fernandez made his return at Stamford Bridge on Saturday to a mixed reception.
The Argentina midfielder came off the bench during Chelsea’s 3-1 pre-season win over Real Sociedad and was met by a combination of cheers and boos from the home support. As he entered the pitch, one supporter held up the Falklands flag – a response to events involving Argentina at this summer’s World Cup.
Following their dramatic 2-1 semi-final win over England in Atlanta, several members of the squad were pictured with a banner carrying the message “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (“The Falklands are Argentine”). The banner had been brought into the stadium by supporters before finding its way on to the pitch after the final whistle.
Lisandro Martinez and other members of the Argentina party were pictured with the sign, prompting calls from the British government for FIFA to investigate. Political messaging by players is prohibited under World Cup regulations, with the episode reviving the long-running sovereignty dispute between Argentina and the UK over the islands.
The Falkland Islands Government also called for action from FIFA following the incident.
Enzo was never likely to be a popular figure after his antics at the World Cup, including a very inflammatory celebration versus England, where he obviously works his day job.
The player also fell out with former manager Liam Rosenior last season after entertaining links with a move to Real Madrid, causing the Argentine to be suspended from the first team.
If he does leave Chelsea, the most likely move now is for a reunion with former manager Enzo Maresca at new club Manchester City as they scrounge for a Rodri replacement – with the Spaniard Barcelona-bound.
Chelsea, now under Xabi Alonso, have maintained publicly that Fernandez remains part of their plans, but the reaction at Stamford Bridge suggests there is some repairing to do with sections of the support if he stays.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at harry.ewing@insideworldfootball.com