Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez is set to anchor Argentina's midfield when England face their old foes in a World Cup semi-final on Wednesday night. The 25-year-old arrived at Stamford Bridge for a club-record fee after the 2022 World Cup, which Argentina won, and has remained a key figure. However, his off-field life has been marked by controversy, from a lavish London home and a turbulent relationship to a racism scandal and an unresolved transfer situation.
Enzo Fernandez's Expansive London Home
Fernandez and his partner, Valentina Cervantes, recently gave fans a rare glimpse into their opulent London mansion. The couple, who have two children, allowed Argentine TV programme 'Por El Mundo' to tour the property. The house features a well-stocked pantry, a spacious kitchen, large windows, a heated treehouse for their children, and an outdoor swimming pool.
Valentina, a social media influencer, said: "We moved recently to this house. We're always moving because Enzo really likes changing houses. He says it renews his energy, so that's why we moved recently. It's modern, and it lets in a lot of natural light. We have a pool, but I don't know who in England thought of building an outdoor pool. Even if it's heated, you'd freeze!"
Turbulent Relationship and Rekindling
Fernandez and Valentina have had a rocky few years. They split in 2024 after reports that he told her he no longer wanted to continue the relationship. The separation was confirmed in October 2024, with Valentina acknowledging they had chosen to create distance. Fernandez was later linked to Argentine rapper Nicki Nicole and model Pampita Ardohain, though both denied involvement.
In early 2025, speculation emerged that the couple had reunited. Valentina confirmed the reconciliation with an Instagram photo. On Multitalenttv's 'Don't Think So Much', she said: "Second chances always come, generally with anyone. Because we're human beings and we can make mistakes. No more third chances, there's no third or fourth. We're doing very well now; we've known each other for a long time. Enzo looks at me now and knows what's going on with me." They now appear happy, with Valentina supporting Fernandez at the World Cup in North America.
Racism Storm and Apology
Chelsea was rocked in July 2024 when footage emerged of Fernandez singing an alleged racist chant with Argentina teammates after their 1-0 Copa America final win over Colombia. He shared the video on Instagram, prompting backlash. French Chelsea teammates Malo Gusto, Axel Disasi, and Wesley Fofana unfollowed him on Instagram. Fofana shared the clip with the caption: "Football in 2024: uninhibited racism." The chant allegedly contained racist and transphobic language.
Fernandez apologised: "I want to apologise sincerely for a video posted on my Instagram channel during the national team celebrations. The song includes highly offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse for these words. I stand against discrimination in all forms and apologise for getting caught up in the euphoria of our Copa America celebrations. That video, that moment, those words, do not reflect my beliefs or my character. I am truly sorry." Chelsea confirmed an internal disciplinary procedure was underway.
Transfer Fury and Unresolved Future
In April, former Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior revealed Fernandez was dropped for an FA Cup tie against Port Vale after "a line was crossed" when the Argentine publicly expressed interest in a move to Real Madrid. Fernandez said: "I'd like to live in Spain. I really like Madrid; it reminds me of Buenos Aires. Players live where they want. I'd live in Madrid. I get by in English, but I'd be more comfortable in Spanish."
Real Madrid confirmed they were not in talks for a transfer. New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso affirmed his desire to keep Fernandez, saying: "We have spoken. But, as you can understand, what we said will remain private."
