Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Wolves on Saturday ended on a worrying note as star midfielder Enzo Fernandez revealed he has been playing through a persistent knee injury for the past four months, forcing him to withdraw from Argentina’s upcoming international fixtures.
The Argentine playmaker, who was named Premier League Player of the Match, played a crucial role in orchestrating Chelsea’s win at Stamford Bridge but later confirmed that the injury had worsened in recent weeks.
Fernandez reveals extent of knee problem
Speaking after the match, Fernandez disclosed that he had been managing a bone edema in his knee, which has progressively deteriorated due to Chelsea’s congested fixture schedule.
“I will not be available with Argentina,” Fernandez said. “I had a problem with my knee in the last four months. It got worse because we played a lot of games. I think it’s best to stop now and respect the doctors’ advice.”
The 24-year-old will miss Argentina’s friendly matches against Angola as he begins a short recovery period under Chelsea’s medical supervision.
Key role in Chelsea’s win
Despite his injury, Fernandez was instrumental in Chelsea’s dominant second-half display. His composure and passing dictated the tempo, unlocking Wolves’ stubborn defense and allowing teammates to flourish.
Malo Gusto opened the scoring, his first-ever goal for Chelsea, before Joao Pedro and Pedro Neto added further strikes to seal the win.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca praised the midfielder’s leadership and Gusto’s breakthrough goal, saying:
“We like our full-backs to attack and arrive inside the box. Malo’s goal opened up the game, and we’re very happy for him.”
Additional injury concerns for Chelsea
There were more fitness worries for the Blues as Moises Caicedo was seen limping after a first-half collision, while Pedro Neto also requested a substitution due to a groin issue.
“Caicedo just took a knock. Pedro and Enzo both asked to come off with minor problems, so we’ll assess them.”
Recovery ahead of busy fixture list
The international break arrives at a crucial time for Fernandez, providing a window for rest and rehabilitation before Chelsea’s packed late-November and December schedule.
The Blues face Burnley away on November 22, a Champions League home clash with Barcelona on November 25, and a London derby against Arsenal to close out the month.
December brings further challenges, including Premier League fixtures against Leeds United, Everton, and a Carabao Cup quarter-final tie against Cardiff City.