Once again, when it mattered, it was Enzo Fernandez who stepped up to the plate. Chelsea had started the game well but were still searching for the opener. Joao Pedro showed determination to win a loose ball before sending Pedro Net through. For a change, the winger put in an early cross.
Fernandez had already made his box-crashing run. And as has so often been the case, he was in the right place to steer a header past the Leeds United goalkeeper. It was 1-0 to Chelsea early in the game. Over time, they lost some of the control and the opposition had their chances.
Ultimately, Chelsea were able to keep the clean sheet to hold on to their one-goal lead and secure all three points. Fernandez was the man of the match. And it felt like a kind of redemption for the midfielder who has faced so much scrutiny in the past few weeks.
There has been so much speculation over his future. Fernandez was even suspended by the club for two games after he admitted he would want to live in Madrid someday amid rumours of a move to the Santiago Bernabeu. Publicly, the Argentine has never ruled out an exit, which has further added to the speculation. Now though, it looks like there is possibility of his staying on at Chelsea, but a couple of conditions need to be met.
Enzo Fernandez could be willing to stay at Chelsea if two conditions are met
According to Simon Phillips (via The Chelsea Chronicle), if the club up their current contract offer and sign more experienced players, Fernandez could stay.
Of course, it is worth pointing out that Fernandez’s camp were believed to have been negotiating a fresh contract. But the two parties could not find a suitable solution. The exit rumours might have started from there.
Lately, the situation has been played down a bit. Also, Fernandez did point to the Chelsea badge while celebrating after scoring against Leeds United at Wembley. Was that a hint that he wants or plans to stay. Time shall tell.
What does the future hold for Fernandez?
Fernandez is one of the best in the world in his role. There are not too many midfielders with his profile. Personally, I looked at so many profiles when rumours broke out about a potential exit. But it was hard to find anybody who could come in and be a great replacement for the Argentine World Cup winner from the get-go.
So, it would be best for Chelsea if he continues at the club beyond this season. Now, it remains to be seen if that will happen or not.
There have been plenty of suggestions that Chelsea are willing to sign more experienced players this summer. There is no indication of their plans when it comes to the contract situation, though.
