Chelsea have confirmed that Enzo Fernandez will keep the vice-captaincy despite receiving a two-match ban for publicly flirting with Real Madrid.
Chelsea Decide Enzo Fernandez Will Remain Vice-Captain Despite Two-Game Sanction
Head coach Liam Rosenior announced on Friday morning that the World Cup winner will miss Saturday’s FA Cup clash against Port Vale and next Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Manchester City.
The punishment follows a series of controversial interviews Fernandez gave during the international break.
In three separate media appearances over the past fortnight, the Argentine midfielder openly questioned his Chelsea future.
He invited Real Madrid to make a move for him, made unsolicited comments praising legendary Los Blancos players, and expressed a desire to live in the Spanish capital.
Rosenior described the midfielder’s remarks as “a line crossed.” However, when asked whether Fernandez would lose the vice-captain role, the head coach gave a clear response.
“Enzo is still part of the leadership group,” Rosenior said.
“I’ve said before, this is a sanction for pretty much one week, where he will miss Man City. Then we’ll see after that.
For me, I won’t be stripping him of anything because he doesn’t deserve that.”
Rosenior also confirmed that Fernandez will not train separately from the first team.
“He’ll still be here, he’ll still train, he’s still a part of the group, for sure,” he added.
Many observers believe the comments signal a point of no return for the 23-year-old at Stamford Bridge. But Rosenior insists the midfielder has a future with the club.
When asked directly whether Fernandez can come back from this episode, Rosenior replied: “Yes, for sure.”
Chelsea now face a crucial period as they manage both on-field discipline and the dressing room dynamic.
Fernandez will watch from the sidelines this weekend before the club reassesses his situation following the Manchester City match.
