Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has disclosed that his players were frequently inquiring about the potential arrival of Enzo Fernández before his transfer on deadline day. Meanwhile, Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso remarked that it’s now time to move on from that chapter.
Fernández finalized a record-equalling £125 million ($169 million) transfer from Chelsea to City late on Tuesday, concluding a transfer saga that spanned much of the summer.
Chelsea had initially imposed a deadline of August 14 for any offers for Fernández. After that deadline passed, City made a final push, leading to intense discussions over the transfer fee before a resolution was reached just prior to the 11 p.m. cutoff.
“He’s a winner, and whenever a winner joins a squad, it brings happiness,” Maresca said on Friday.
“I can assure you that in the last few days, four or five players were asking whether he was coming because they wanted him on the team.
“It’s crucial that he’s here, and we are absolutely thrilled about that.”
Fernández may make his debut for City against Coventry at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
Maresca, who previously coached Fernández at Chelsea, expressed his intention to bring in “one or two more captains” but confirmed that the midfielder won’t be included in City’s leadership group immediately.
“The four captains are Ruben [Dias], Erling [Haaland], Marc Guéhi, and Gigi Donnarumma,” Maresca stated.
“But Enzo is prepared. I know him well and understand what he can contribute to the team. He’s a winner and possesses a winning mentality. He knows how to succeed—having won the World Cup and Club World Cup.”
Alonso emphasized that Chelsea needs to move past Fernández’s exit as they gear up to face Premier League champions Arsenal on Sunday.
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“We make all decisions collaboratively. We are accountable for them through our joint efforts, be they large or small,” Alonso explained.
“We are committed to ensuring what’s best for the team, the squad, and our daily work here. We aim to foster a positive spirit and a strong team, and all our decisions are made with that goal in mind.”
Alonso added, “In football, many things unfold, and you must be ready for anything.”
“We’ve had conversations regarding Enzo, always with mutual respect. What he has accomplished for the club has been remarkable, and we are grateful, but it’s now time to move forward.”
“We have numerous strong personalities and talented players across various positions, and we are prepared for the upcoming challenges.”
After Fernández’s departure, Chelsea aimed to sign Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, but that deal fell through when the Ligue 1 club retracted after failing to submit a deal sheet before the transfer window closed.
Information from PA was utilized in this report.