Chelsea FC midfielder Enzo Fernández has been left out of the matchday squad for a second consecutive fixture, manager Xabi Alonso confirmed ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with Brighton & Hove Albion. Alonso's decision, first reported by SI.com, follows Fernández's absence from Thursday's Carabao Cup tie against Luton Town and places further doubt on his immediate future at Stamford Bridge. si.com first reported the story.
Alonso described the Argentine as a "top player" but stated he did not meet the demands for a competitive game. "We assess what’s best for the team and considering everything, the situation, we need a team that is focused, with everyone involved that’s fully committed and engaged with the game," the manager said. He added, "It was a decision we thought was good for the team, for the club."
What was Chelsea's lineup against Brighton?
With Fernández unavailable and Moisés Caicedo only fit enough for the bench, Alonso made several key selections. Emiliano Martínez made his first start in goal for Chelsea since his move from Aston Villa, with Robert Sánchez excluded entirely. In a tactical shift, Malo Gusto was deployed in an unfamiliar midfield role alongside Roméo Lavia. The attacking trio of Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer, and João Pedro retained their places from the previous league outing. Club captain Reece James was among the substitutes, which also included the returning Caicedo, Valentín Barco, and Danny Welbeck.
What is the latest on Enzo Fernández's future?
Reports indicate Chelsea set a deadline of August 14 for Manchester City to make a bid for Fernández, with an asking price set at £120 million. City did not respond to that ultimatum. However, it is understood that personal terms have been agreed between the player and the Manchester club managed by Enzo Maresca. Should a move materialise, Monaco's Lamine Camara has been floated as a potential replacement target for Chelsea.
How does this affect Chelsea's season context?
The squad decisions come as Chelsea hold fourth place in the Premier League table with six points from two wins. They have scored seven goals and conceded five, giving them a +2 goal difference. The team's next challenge is a significant away fixture against second-placed Arsenal on September 6, a match detailed on our fixtures page. The current standings show a tight early race at the top.
Who else is unavailable for Chelsea?
Beyond the Fernández situation, Chelsea's injury list includes Jordan Henderson and Marco Palestra, as noted on the club's injuries page. Their absence, along with the ongoing integration of new signings like Martínez, tests the squad's depth. Alonso's immediate focus will be on preparing a team without Fernández for the short trip to North London this weekend.
