In a recent statement, Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca disclosed that multiple players within the squad were eager to learn whether Enzo Fernandez would be joining the team before the transfer window closed. The interest in Fernandez, who previously played under Maresca at Chelsea, underscores the excitement surrounding his arrival at the club.
Fernandez, a 25-year-old midfielder from Argentina, made headlines when he transferred to Manchester City from Chelsea for a joint-British record fee of £125 million on transfer deadline day. This significant investment reflects City's ambition to strengthen their squad following a successful previous season, where they won the Premier League and UEFA Champions League.
Maresca expressed confidence in Fernandez's readiness to make his debut for Manchester City in their upcoming match against Coventry City at the Etihad Stadium. He emphasized his familiarity with the player, stating, "I know Enzo quite well and I know what he can bring to the team. He is a winner - a winner's mentality and knows how to win after the World Cup, Club World Cup." This sentiment highlights the expectations placed on Fernandez, who has already established himself as a key player on the international stage.
During his time at Chelsea, Maresca appointed Fernandez as captain, showcasing his leadership qualities. However, he confirmed that Ruben Dias would take over the captaincy at Manchester City, succeeding Bernardo Silva, who left the club during the summer transfer window. Other notable players in the leadership group include Erling Haaland, Marc Guehi, and Gianluigi Donnarumma, indicating a strong core of experienced players within the squad.
Maresca revealed that the excitement surrounding Fernandez's transfer was palpable among the players, stating, "I can promise you that in the last four or five days, four or five players from the squad were asking if he is coming or not because they want him to be with us. It's very important that he is with us and we are 100% happy with that." This eagerness reflects the high regard in which Fernandez is held by his new teammates.
In a recent interview, Fernandez expressed his enthusiasm about joining Manchester City, stating he had always dreamed of being part of such a prestigious club. This sentiment has raised eyebrows, as it could be perceived as a slight towards his former club, Chelsea, where he struggled to find consistent form. His desire to leave Stamford Bridge became clear earlier this year, and discussions with Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso did not alter his decision.
Alonso acknowledged the situation, remarking, "In football, many things happen. With Enzo, we have had conversations and always with respect. What he has done for the club has been great, but now it's time to move forward." This statement indicates that Chelsea is ready to focus on their current squad, which they believe has enough quality to compete effectively.
Manchester City made headlines during the transfer window, spending a record £458 million on new signings, including a revamped midfield featuring Fernandez, Elliot Anderson, and Ayyoub Bouaddi. Along with wingers Iliman Ndiaye and Allan, and backup goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli, City has bolstered their squad while also recouping over £300 million through player sales. Maresca expressed gratitude for the ownership's support in these acquisitions, stating, "I am very happy for the effort from the ownership, chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, and director of football Hugo Viana. Very happy. In the last days, Iliman and Enzo arrived, and now the squad is complete - it's finished. Now it is time to work."
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