Chelsea suspends Enzo Fernandez for two matches

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández, 25, has been handed a two-match suspension following controversial remarks fueling transfer rumors linking him to Real Madrid

Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior, 42, confirmed the disciplinary action at a press conference, saying, “I spoke with Enzo an hour ago. This was a decision made by the club and myself. He will not be able to play in the Port Vale match and the upcoming Manchester City match next week.”

As a result, Fernández will miss Chelsea’s FA Cup eighth-round tie against Port Vale on the 5th and the Premier League 32nd-round home clash with Manchester City on the 13th.

The suspension stems from comments Fernández made after Chelsea’s 0-3 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg on March 18. When asked about his future, he said ambiguously, “There are eight league matches and the FA Cup left. Let’s see after the World Cup.”

He later added in a separate interview, “I want to live in Spain. Madrid reminds me of my hometown, Buenos Aires, and it’s really nice,” and, “While English is fine, Spanish is more comfortable for me,” intensifying speculation about a move to Real Madrid.

Rosenior stressed, “I respect Enzo as a human being and a player. He is frustrated because he wants the team to succeed,” adding that the decision was made collectively with the sporting director, club owner, and players.

“The door is not closed for Enzo. This is a disciplinary action,” Rosenior said, highlighting that the midfielder crossed the line during the international break and that club culture must be respected.