Chelsea issued an apologetic statement to their fans midway through the Blues’ pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad on Saturday afternoon. It was the final pre-season fixture for Xabi Alonso and co. ahead of their season opener against Fulham next weekend, with the Premier League side running out 3-1 winners.
Fernandez booed at Stamford Bridge
Morgan Rogers netted on what was his first appearance for the club, while Joao Pedro continued his strong pre-season form with a second-half brace. However, the biggest talking point of the day surrounded Enzo Fernandez, who was booed by some fans with his future still uncertain.
Fernandez flirted with a move to Real Madrid and is of interest to Manchester City, with Chelsea’s former manager, Enzo Maresca, eyeing up the Argentina international. The Italian boss took a liking to Fernandez during their time together at Stamford Bridge, with suggestions City will make a move if Rodri leaves for Barcelona this summer.
Streaming issues prompt apology
The 25-year-old came off the bench during Saturday’s friendly against La Real, and while the stadium announcer didn’t read out his name, there were audible boos when he took to the field, though other supporters also chanted his name. The move has been criticised by some Chelsea fans, while others have doubled down on showing their disapproval of Fernandez.
But for those not in attendance at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, it might have been difficult to hear the boos. That’s because the club revealed on social media that they were having problems with their in-house streaming service.
Acknowledging the issue, a statement posted to social media read: “We realise that for some fans, there have been issues watching the Chelsea vs Real Sociedad game on CFC+. If you purchased a Match Pass for today’s game, we will be in touch via email with instructions on how to claim a refund.”
Alonso's first home match
Xabi Alonso took charge of his first Chelsea home match. Chelsea travel to Fulham in what will be Alonso’s first Premier League match as manager. The Spanish coach didn’t host a press conference after the Saturday afternoon friendly, but did acknowledge the fans for their positive support.
Speaking to the club’s official website, he remarked: “It was emotional to feel my first time in the new home. A great reception from the supporters to the team and to the new staff, myself as well, so delighted.
“We want to create good connections and have that support. We want to give them good football so they will give us energy, and we connect. To have a good atmosphere here in the stadium will be a massive boost for the team.”
