By Isaac Mission
Enzo Fernandez reportedly told Chelsea that his relationship with members of the squad had deteriorated beyond repair before completing his £125 million move to Manchester City on transfer deadline day.
According to claims from Stamford Bridge insiders, the Argentina midfielder made it clear to the club that he no longer believed his relationship with the dressing room could be restored as he pushed for a move away from Chelsea.
Further reports suggest Fernandez also informed the club that he had maintained private communication with former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, who had made the midfielder one of his key targets after taking charge at Manchester City.
The 25-year-old is also alleged to have submitted two formal written transfer requests during his attempts to secure a departure before Chelsea eventually sanctioned his move to City.
Fernandez’s representatives were reportedly approached for a response to the allegations.
His departure comes at a time when Chelsea are rewarding players who have demonstrated a commitment to remaining at the club. Pedro Neto, for example, has signed improved terms after City were also said to have shown interest in the Portuguese winger during the summer.
Neto has agreed to a six-year contract, consisting of five guaranteed years with an option for another season, alongside an improved salary.
The winger has impressed under Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso this season, contributing two goals in five appearances across competitions while also being deployed primarily as a wing-back.
Alonso praised Neto ahead of Chelsea’s clash with Hull, highlighting the player’s versatility and his ability to combine effectively with his teammates.
Several other Chelsea players, including Joao Pedro, Reece James, Moises Caicedo and Cole Palmer, have also agreed improved deals, while Levi Colwill is reportedly among those expected to receive a new contract.
Fernandez’s relationship with Chelsea had already come under pressure last season after he publicly appeared to court interest from Real Madrid. The midfielder was subsequently suspended by Chelsea for two matches over the comments.
Real Madrid later clarified that they had no interest in signing him.
Manchester City, however, remained determined to land Fernandez. Negotiations accelerated during the final days of the summer transfer window before the clubs eventually reached an agreement worth £125 million.
The transfer reunited Fernandez with Maresca, who had previously worked with the midfielder at Chelsea and reportedly viewed him as a priority signing.
Fernandez will now turn his attention to his new club, with the Argentine expected to feature in his first Manchester derby when City face Manchester United on Sunday.
