Predictions
Chelsea head into the first international break of the Premier League season with more questions than answers. Enzo Maresca’s side were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge, leaving the manager slightly uneasy about the Blues’ tempo and sharpness just three games into the campaign.
For Maresca, international breaks are never ideal. A large portion of his squad will scatter across the globe, putting in extra minutes for their national teams and facing the risk of injury. Yet one of Chelsea’s highest-profile players, Enzo Fernández, will remain at Cobham.
The Argentine midfielder has come under heavy criticism for his subdued display against Palace. Player ratings after the match were far from flattering, with Fernández singled out for looking a step behind several of his teammates. Calls have even emerged suggesting that the World Cup winner could be dropped to the bench if his form does not improve.
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It marks a sharp contrast to last season, when Fernández was a key figure in Chelsea’s midfield and seemed to thrive under pressure. This year, however, he has yet to find his rhythm.
His absence from Argentina’s squad for the upcoming fixtures against Venezuela and Ecuador may turn out to be a blessing. Fernández was sent off for dangerous play in Argentina’s last outing against Colombia and is suspended, leaving him free to stay in London. Instead of jetting off for international duty, he now has a valuable window to reset, train intensively at Cobham, and rediscover the levels that made him such an important signing for Chelsea.
With the Premier League season just beginning to take shape, Chelsea will need Fernández firing on all cylinders if they are to push towards the top end of the table.
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