Fernandez's Agent Criticizes "Unfair" Two-Match Ban After Midfielder's Madrid Comments

The agent of Enzo Fernandez has described Chelsea's decision to drop the midfielder for two matches as "completely unfair," arguing that the sanction was disproportionate to comments in which Fernandez merely expressed a preference for living in Madrid.

Chelsea coach Liam Rosenior confirmed Friday that Fernandez would miss the FA Cup quarterfinal against Port Vale and the Premier League fixture against Manchester City. The punishment followed a podcast appearance in which the Argentina international said he would like to reside in the Spanish capital, remarks that fueled existing speculation linking him with a move to Real Madrid, despite his contract running until 2031.

Javier Pastore told The Athletic that Fernandez did not mention any club or express a desire to leave Chelsea. "He only mentions Madrid, the city," Pastore said. "The punishment is completely unfair. Banning the player for two matches, which moreover are also absolutely crucial for Chelsea because qualification for the Champions League is at stake and he is one of the team's most important players."

Pastore added that Fernandez did not understand the decision but accepted it professionally. He indicated that after the World Cup, his plan is to meet with Chelsea again and, "if there is no agreement, to explore other options."

Rosenior defended the club's position, stating that Fernandez had crossed a line regarding team culture. "It's disappointing for Enzo to speak that way," Rosenior said. "I've got no bad words to say about him, but a line was crossed in terms of our culture and what we want to build. The door is not closed on Enzo. It's a sanction. You have to protect the culture."

Fernandez joined Chelsea from Benfica for a then-British record £107 million ($142 million) in 2023 and was appointed vice-captain the following year.