Liam Rosenior chose not to comment on the criticism directed at Chelsea by Enzo Fernández‘s agent, but clarified, “things aren’t as people might believe” concerning the player’s future.
Fernández did not play in Saturday’s FA Cup quarterfinal, where Chelsea triumphed 7-0 against struggling League One side Port Vale, but he did attend to cheer on his teammates.
The 25-year-old will also be absent for next weekend’s Premier League match against Manchester City after expressing uncertainty about his future in a past interview with ESPN Argentina following Chelsea’s Champions League exit to Paris Saint-Germain.
The player added to the speculation during the international break, stating, “I would like to live in Spain; I really like Madrid,” amid ongoing rumors linking him with a move to Real Madrid.
Fernández has a contract with Chelsea that runs until 2032, and sources inform ESPN that he is valued at over £100 million ($132m).
Rosenior stated that Fernández had “crossed a line,” resulting in what effectively amounts to a two-match suspension for the player.
In response, Fernández’s agent, Javier Pastore, labeled the punishment as “completely unfair.”
“We don’t understand the punishment as he never named any club or expressed a desire to leave Chelsea,” Pastore commented.
When asked about Pastore’s remarks, Rosenior responded: “That’s his opinion. I have no comment on someone else’s viewpoint. Enzo knows how I feel about him, and it was great to see him here today supporting the team.”
“We’ll continue to push forward and ensure we have a successful conclusion to the season. The conversations I have with my players, including Enzo, stay private.”
1:21
Kieran Gibbs reflects on Chelsea’s significant FA Cup victory over Port Vale after a turbulent week off the field.
“The dressing room is a sacred space. I have made it clear how I feel about him as a person. He’s a tremendous individual. However, now we need to concentrate on football and achieving our goals for the season.”
Rosenior was pressed to address whether Fernández believes the suspension was unjust.
“In due time, at the appropriate moment—which is not now, considering what we’ve been through—I’m sure we will discuss what has transpired between Enzo and me,” the Chelsea manager noted.
“Enzo and I have a very positive relationship. I had a good one-on-one conversation with him today, and things are not what many might believe.”
Chelsea secured an easy victory with goals from Jorrel Hato and João Pedro, along with an own goal from Jordan Lawrence-Gabriel, giving them a 3-0 lead at halftime.
– Enzo Fernández’s agent: Chelsea punishment ‘completely unfair’
– ‘Not a leader’ – John Obi Mikel criticizes Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández
– Chelsea thrashes Port Vale 7-0 in FA Cup quarterfinal
Tosin Adarabioyo, Andrey Santos, Estêvão, and an Alejandro Garnacho penalty helped Chelsea advance to the semifinals.
However, Rosenior disclosed a new injury setback for Jamie Gittens, who sustained another injury during training.
“Unfortunately, Jamie picked up what appears to be a hamstring injury yesterday during training,” Rosenior stated.
“We need to assess him and ensure he’s alright. It’s really unfortunate for him as this marks the third time he’s faced this issue. We must support him and make sure he receives proper care. I can’t provide a timeline for his recovery just yet.”