Fernandez Out! Chelsea Star's Man City Move in Doubt

Enzo Fernández has been notably absent from Chelsea's matchday squad for two consecutive matches. Manager Xabi Alonso stated that players must be fully focused, committed, and engaged, implying Fernández did not meet these demands for recent fixtures against Luton Town and Brighton & Hove Albion. Chelsea had reportedly set a deadline of August 14 for Manchester City to submit a bid for the World Cup winner, who is valued at $162.7 million (£120 million).

Despite the deadline passing without a formal bid, Manchester City is still thought to have agreed personal terms with Fernández. Chelsea, meanwhile, is preparing for life without the midfielder and is considering potential replacements, with Monaco's Lamine Camara mentioned as a possibility. In other team news, new goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez made his debut for Chelsea following his arrival from Aston Villa, with Alonso expressing confidence in his immediate impact. Robert Sánchez was also omitted from the squad, signaling a potential departure.