Enzo Fernandez has vowed to return the love to Chelsea supporters next season following a disappointing campaign. Despite some miserable results, the 22-year-old midfielder has played a pivotal role in the Blues’ midfield since arriving from Benfica in January.
Chelsea managed to wrap up a deal with the Portuguese giants on deadline day, agreeing to pay £106.7million in six instalments. The Argentina international signed an eight-and-a-half-year contract, with the option for another which has since been activated, becoming the most expensive player in the west London club’s history.
And, for many Chelsea fans, Fernandez has been worth every penny. In the Argentinean’s message, he acknowledged the tremendous support he has received since arriving at Stamford Bridge.
Enzo Fernandez said: “I want to thank all the fans for their support all these months at Stamford Bridge and everywhere we played away. It was not the season that we wanted and that the club deserves, now it’s time to recharge the batteries and come back better to return all your love. See you the next season Chelsea fans, we are together.”
In an interview with UEFA earlier this year, Fernandez attributed his smooth transition at Chelsea to the friendships he’s made with Kai Havertz and Joao Felix.
Enzo Fernandez said: “Adapting always takes time, meeting new players. I was among the ten new players that came in [during the winter]. It’s hard with different languages, so it’s difficult to connect with team-mates at the beginning. As time goes by, we start getting to know our team-mates better and it will get better with time. Have I struck up a connection with Kai Havertz and João Félix? We do have this connection, away from the pitch as well. But we have many good players. All of our attackers are class and have quality, so all of them can play at the top level. I’ve adapted quite well. London is very different from Lisbon and from Buenos Aires, we all know that already. It’s very cold. I’m still adjusting as best as possible with my family and I’ll be fine. London is very beautiful and I’m delighted.”
Fernandez is expected to be the centrepiece of Mauricio Pochettino’s project at Chelsea. The Blues are in the market for a midfielder to partner the Argentinean, with N’Golo Kante, Mason Mount and Mateo Kovacic all facing uncertain futures this summer.
