Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has confirmed that midfielder Enzo Fernandez has been dropped from the squad for the club’s next two matches. The decision comes as a direct sanction following comments Fernandez made regarding his future and a potential affinity for Real Madrid during the recent international break.
As a result of the disciplinary action, the Argentine international will miss Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final tie against Port Vale, as well as the crucial Premier League showdown with Manchester City next Sunday.
“A Line Was Crossed”: Rosenior Explains Fernandez Sanction
Speaking at his press conference on Friday, Rosenior clarified the club’s stance on Fernandez’s recent media appearances while on international duty with Argentina.
During an interview with Argentine media personality Marcos Giles, Fernandez was asked about the Spanish capital. He stated, “I really like Madrid – it’s similar to Buenos Aires.” When pressed on whether he would ever consider living in Madrid, the midfielder replied, “Yes, of course.”
Rosenior addressed the situation head-on: “I spoke with Enzo an hour ago. We’ve made a decision – he won’t be available for tomorrow’s game and he won’t be available for Manchester City. It’s disappointing to speak in that way.”
However, the Chelsea boss emphasized that the midfielder’s future at Stamford Bridge is not over. “In terms of him as a person, I’ve got no bad words to say. But a line was crossed in terms of our culture. We had to make a sanction… The door is not closed on Enzo – that’s very important. You have to protect this club and culture.”
Different Approach for Marc Cucurella Following Criticism
Fernandez wasn’t the only Chelsea player to make headlines during the international break. Spanish defender Marc Cucurella also publicly criticized the club’s recruitment policy—specifically the focus on signing young players—and expressed frustration over the recent departure of former manager Enzo Maresca.
Despite the critical nature of the interview, Rosenior confirmed that Cucurella will not face a playing suspension. In fact, the left-back remains in contention to captain the side against Port Vale.
Rosenior revealed he had a 30-minute private meeting with Cucurella to discuss the issue. “My disappointment in Marc’s interview is where it went to,” Rosenior explained. “I think he should have spoken to us first about the things that he’s feeling. I want players to feel like they can speak openly and honestly for the benefit of the football club.”
The manager chalked the incident up to Cucurella’s passionate nature and the short amount of time the new coaching staff has had to build internal trust, noting he has only been at the helm for a few months. “Marc is fully committed, he wants to be here, he’s made that very, very clear to me,” Rosenior added.
As Chelsea navigate a turbulent period both on and off the pitch, Rosenior has made it clear that establishing a unified and respectful club culture remains his top priority heading into the summer transfer window.
