Enzo Fernandez chooses Argentina over Chelsea, set to miss rest of Premier League season

Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez | Imago

Enzo Fernandez chooses Argentina over Chelsea, set to miss rest of Premier League season

Ayoola Kelechi 08:16 - 26.04.2024

Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez is set to miss the rest of the Premier League season

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez is set to sit out the remainder of the Premier League season due to a groin injury that has plagued him for over a month.

The Argentine international underwent surgery to address an inguinal hernia, a condition affecting the groin region, ensuring his availability for the upcoming Copa America tournament.

Enzo sidelined for rehabilitation

Following a successful surgical procedure, Fernandez faces a period of rehabilitation, as confirmed by a statement from Chelsea. The club's medical department will oversee his recovery process at Cobham, ruling him out of action for the remainder of the 2023/24 season.

Enzo Fernandez was named the Young Player of the Tournament as Argentina won the World Cup
Enzo Fernandez was named the Young Player of the Tournament as Argentina won the World Cup

Despite the setback, Fernandez is expected to return to fitness in approximately three weeks, just in time for the Copa America, commencing on June 20 in the United States. Both Chelsea and Argentina's team doctors deemed surgery necessary, prioritising his availability for international duty.

Consultations and support for Fernandez

Before opting for surgery, Fernandez consulted with a kinesiologist from his River Plate days, who accompanied him to London for the procedure. The decision to undergo treatment before the Copa America aligns with the mutual agreement of all involved parties, including Chelsea and Argentina's medical teams.

Fernandez's absence from Chelsea's lineup will be felt, considering his recent contributions on the pitch. Despite mixed performances, the midfielder has showcased glimpses of his talent, scoring three Premier League goals and providing four assists since joining from Benfica in January last year for a record fee.

Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez and Mauricio Pochettino | Imago
Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez and Mauricio Pochettino | Imago

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino remains optimistic about Fernandez's development, highlighting the learning curve of adapting to the Premier League. Pochettino believes that the 23-year-old will show significant improvement next season, benefitting from his experience in the squad and the league.

Remaining Fixtures for Chelsea

With six Premier League games remaining, Chelsea still has an opportunity to secure European qualification, trailing sixth-placed Manchester United by six points with a game in hand. The upcoming matches against Villa, Tottenham, West Ham, Forest, Brighton, and Bournemouth will be crucial in determining their final league position.

As Fernandez focuses on his recovery and prepares for international duty with Argentina, Chelsea will aim to finish the season on a high note, striving for success in both domestic and continental competitions.

Related content