Enzo Fernandez faced a hostile reception from significant portions of the Chelsea fanbase on Saturday as he entered the pitch during a 3-1 friendly victory against Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge. The 25-year-old midfielder, who informed the club of his intention to depart in May, was introduced as a 62nd-minute substitute for Reece James, triggering audible boos from sections of the crowd. Despite the negative reaction, other supporters offered vocal backing to the Argentina international.
Chelsea has reportedly set a £120 million ($162 million) valuation on the player, though no formal offers have materialized during the current summer transfer window. Fernandez’s recent international campaign included scoring an equalizer during Argentina’s World Cup semi-final triumph over England in July, followed by a red card in the final against Spain.
On the pitch, record signing Morgan Rogers made an impactful debut at Stamford Bridge, converting a rebound after a Joao Pedro header was initially saved. While Jon Aramburu managed to equalize for the visiting La Liga side, Pedro secured the win for manager Xabi Alonso’s squad by netting a double, bringing his pre-season tally to eight goals.
This result serves as the final preparation for Chelsea before they begin their Premier League campaign with an away fixture against local rivals Fulham. The club continues to navigate the uncertainty surrounding Fernandez’s future as the transfer deadline approaches.
But other supporters gave their backing to the 25-year-old Fernandez, who told the Blues in May he wanted to leave.
