Enzo Fernandez sparks civil war at Chelsea

Cameron Smith

2 Apr 2026 06:30 CDT
4 min read

Enzo Fernandez has reportedly angered his Chelsea team-mates following his lack of leadership during their current slump in form.

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The Blues suffered four consecutive defeats across all competitions before the March international break, and their participation in next season’s Champions League is in serious doubt due to back-to-back losses in the Premier League.

Fernandez, Chelsea’s vice-captain, was reportedly vocal in the dressing room after the defeats to Paris Saint-Germain (x2), Newcastle United and Everton, while he has also berated his own team-mates, including goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen, during their current barren run of results.

This has “annoyed” some of the Chelsea squad, according to The Telegraph, with the rest of Liam Rosenior’s side keen to remain united as they bid to enjoy a strong end to the 2025-26 season in order to qualify for the Champions League.

Meanwhile, Fernandez’s recent comments will not have improved his standing amongst the Chelsea squad either.

Speaking to ESPN Argentina after Chelsea’s defeat to PSG, Fernandez hinted that he will not be at Stamford Bridge next season. “I don’t know – there are eight games left and the FA Cup. There’s the World Cup and then we’ll see,” he admitted when asked about his west London future.

Since reporting for international duty with Argentina, Fernandez has upped the ante.

Asked which city he would most like to live in during an interview with Marcos Giles for Kick, the 25-year-old Chelsea midfielder explained: “I really like Madrid. It’s similar to Buenos Aires.”

In a subsequent interview with Luzu TV, Fernandez said: “I always tell my wife Valu that if I have to choose a city to live in Europe, I really like Madrid. It's very similar to Buenos Aires, also because of the food.”

When asked about the opponent that has impressed him the most during his career, Fernandez added: “Toni Kroos. It was Real Madrid vs Chelsea at the Bernabeu, and he was so impressive. Luka Modric too.”

Verdict: Who could Chelsea sign to replace Enzo Fernandez?

With Fernandez pining for a Real Madrid transfer, Chelsea could be forced to sanction a sale during the upcoming summer transfer window.

Strasbourg midfielder Valentin Barco has been widely tipped to join the Blues this summer, with a deal reportedly “very close”, while Rosenior’s side are also understood to be keeping close tabs on Elliot Anderson, Kees Smit and Lamine Camara.

If the west London giants want to sign a more attacking option, they will likely rekindle their interest in Aston Villa superstar Morgan Rogers.

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