Xabi Alonso has spoken out for the first time on the sudden decision to leave Enzo Fernandez out of the Chelsea squad, fuelling fresh speculation over the midfielder's future at Stamford Bridge. Although there had been earlier signs that the World Cup-winning midfielder would be involved in the Carabao Cup, his complete absence has left supporters wondering whether a move to Manchester City could be on the cards.
Fernandez left out for Carabao Cup win
Chelsea recorded a 2-0 Carabao Cup win over League One outfit Luton Town on Thursday, but Fernandez's notable absence became one of the main talking points from the night. After coming off the bench in Monday's Premier League opener against Fulham, the 25-year-old was left out of the matchday squad altogether at Stamford Bridge.
The decision represented a swift change of stance from Alonso. Only a few hours earlier, the Spanish coach had openly said that the Argentina international would have a role to play in the second-round tie.
On the field, Chelsea completed the job with little trouble in Alonso's first competitive home match. Danny Welbeck opened his account on debut with a close-range header in the 50th minute, before Estevao Willian forced an own goal from Hakeem Odoffin to confirm progress against Jack Wilshere's side.
Alonso explains sudden U-turn
After the win, Alonso quickly attempted to end speculation emerging from Argentina that Fernandez had declined to play. The Chelsea manager stressed that the call to rest the midfielder had been taken jointly by the coaching staff and the club leadership.
"No, it was a decision from myself and from the club," Alonso said when asked about the rumours. "We assess individually, collectively, what's the best for the team, for tonight, what was better for other players that were playing and we take the decision... It's just because of the game today and we had other players that needed minutes and it was that way."
With Manchester City said to be keeping a close watch, Alonso was also asked whether any ongoing transfer discussions had played a part in his selection call. He strongly dismissed that suggestion, saying: "It's a decision that I took. He's a good professional. He's training well and I have nothing to say about him. It was just a decision that we had to take, thinking about the game that we're playing tonight and we'll see for Sunday [against Brighton]."
Man City circle as transfer deadline nears
Fernandez's unexpected omission appears to be the clearest indication so far that his spell in west London may be nearing its end. Manchester City are reportedly getting ready to make a formal move before the 1 September deadline. A switch to the Etihad Stadium would see the midfielder link up again with former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca.
As Chelsea deal with the Fernandez situation, the club are also continuing to reshape the squad in other areas. The Blues are reportedly set to pay Aston Villa £7.5 million to bring in goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
When asked about the expected arrival of the Argentina goalkeeper despite having previously shown faith in the current options, Alonso chose not to reveal too much. "We are happy with the squad we have," he said. "But I have always said that we need to be aware of situations, that there is still this period where we can make decisions. Let's see what happens."
A critical few days ahead for Chelsea
Alonso must now wait to discover whether Fernandez will still be part of his squad after Tuesday's transfer deadline. Chelsea are due to host Brighton in the Premier League on Sunday, and whether the midfielder is involved - or again left out - could provide the clearest indication yet about his immediate future.
Away from the transfer uncertainty, Chelsea's hopes in the domestic cups remain very much alive. With no European football on their schedule this season, the Carabao Cup takes on major importance for Alonso. His team will face fellow Premier League side Leeds United at Stamford Bridge in the third round in the week beginning 7 September.
