Opinion

Why Enzo Fernandez needs a win against Manchester City more than any other Chelsea player

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Enzo Fernandez is one Chelsea star who would have been sad to see Enzo Maresca go.

Fernandez’s best football at Chelsea has come under the 45-year-old, who departed the club earlier this week.

In total, Fernandez made 78 appearances and scored 14 goals during Maresca’s time in west London.

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With a huge game against Manchester City on Sunday afternoon, though, the midfielder does not have time to dwell on his former manager’s exit.

Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea and Enzo Maresca, Manager of Chelsea, embrace
Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Enzo Fernandez has never beaten Manchester City

Chelsea’s trip to the Etihad is a big match for Fernandez and one that he will be desperate to win. Since arriving in England from Portugal back in 2023, the 24-year-old is yet to beat City.

Fernandez has played against Pep Guardiola’s men on six occasions but has never been on the winning side.

Enzo Fernandez’s record vs Manchester CityTotal
Games6
Wins0
Draws2
Losses4
Goals0
Assists0
Via Transfermarkt

Not many people will be backing the Argentine to pick up his first victory over City this weekend, especially after Maresca’s departure.

Like the rest of the Chelsea team, he has not been in great form either.

However, Fernandez did perform well in Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with Bournemouth, so perhaps he is on the road to reaching his top level again.

Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea controls the ball
Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images

Enzo Fernandez’s critics will be watching him closely amid Moises Caicedo absence

A good performance and win will also get Fernandez’s critics off his back. While the Argentina international did improve under Maresca, after costing more than £100m, the jury is still out for many.

With Moises Caicedo set to miss the City game because of suspension, Fernandez has a great opportunity to prove himself.

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The former Benfica man can show his doubters that he can keep Chelsea’s midfield together in the absence of Caicedo.

Chelsea’s record at the Etihad is poor, and they travel there with an Under-21 manager in charge. Blues supporters would take a point right now, but three would be huge for Fernandez and the rest of the team, especially after everything that has happened this week.