Enzo Fernández received a divided welcome from Chelsea fans during his first pre-season outing, as the club defeated Real Sociedad 3-1 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
The Argentina international came on after the interval and was met by boos from parts of the stadium. Other supporters responded by singing his name, underlining the uncertainty around the 25-year-old’s position at the club.
Quick facts
- Fernández entered the game during the second half.
- Chelsea beat Real Sociedad 3-1 at Stamford Bridge.
- The midfielder is valued by Chelsea at £120 million.
- Morgan Rogers and João Pedro scored for the hosts, while Jon Aramburu replied for Real Sociedad.
The atmosphere followed the expiry of Chelsea’s deadline for Manchester City to make a formal approach. No offer arrived, and Chelsea’s valuation of their record transfer, set at £120 million, has led the club to anticipate Fernández staying for the upcoming campaign.
City have not entirely ended their pursuit, though, meaning the midfielder’s situation could still develop before the transfer window shuts.
Fernández’s bond with the Chelsea fanbase has deteriorated amid prolonged transfer speculation. City’s interest carries additional weight because their recently appointed manager, Enzo Maresca, previously coached the midfielder at Chelsea.
For all the attention surrounding Fernández, the overall mood at Stamford Bridge was upbeat as Chelsea finished their pre-season programme with an emphatic success.
Morgan Rogers put Chelsea ahead, but Real Sociedad levelled shortly before the break through Jon Aramburu. João Pedro then regained the advantage for the home side early in the second half and struck again late on to complete the victory.
