NEWS

Enzo Fernandez Withdraws from Argentina Duty Amid Knee Concerns

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Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has ruled himself out of international duty with Argentina this month after experiencing ongoing knee problems during club action.

Fernandez, who was named Premier League man of the match in Chelsea’s 3-0 victory over Wolves on Saturday, requested to be substituted late in the game and was replaced by Andrey Santos. The 23-year-old later revealed he has been managing a knee issue for several months.

“I’ve been dealing with a problem in my knee over the last four months,” Fernandez said. “I came with a bone edema that has worsened in recent weeks because we’ve played a lot of games.”

Argentina had only one fixture scheduled for November—a friendly against Angola on November 14—but Fernandez has confirmed he will not be available. He is expected to undergo further assessment at Chelsea’s Cobham training ground.

This development represents a potential fresh injury concern for Chelsea, as Fernandez has been a key figure in midfield under manager Enzo Maresca. The club will likely monitor his condition carefully to manage his recovery and prevent any long-term issues.

“I will not be available with Argentina,” Fernandez added, emphasizing the need to focus on recovery.

Chelsea’s medical team is expected to work closely with Fernandez over the coming weeks to ensure he regains full fitness ahead of the busy Premier League and European schedule.

“I think the most important thing is coming to the end of the season and I think it’s good to make this decision together. Always respecting the doctors and everything.”

Blues boss Enzo Maresca also revealed that Pedro Neto, the scorer of Chelsea’s third goal, had asked to be replaced. He had been a doubt heading into the game but passed a late fitness check and started against his former club. He was replaced late on by winger Jamie Gittens.

Maresca was asked about a knock Moises Caicedo suffered in the first half and said: “Yeah, he was okay. It was just a kick in the first half in his knee.

“But he finished the game. I asked him after the game and he was okay.

“Pedro Neto and Enzo both asked for a change. Pedro for the groin problem, Enzo for the knee. We need to see how they are now.”