Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez is poised to anchor Argentina's midfield as England faces their old rivals in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday night. Fernandez joined Stamford Bridge for a club-record fee after Argentina's 2022 World Cup triumph and has been a pivotal player since. The 25-year-old, while undeniably talented, has become a polarizing figure due to his personal life, controversies, and transfer speculation.
Enzo Fernandez's Lavish London Home
Fernandez and his partner, Valentina Cervantes, recently gave fans a rare tour of their opulent London mansion on Argentine TV show 'Por El Mundo'. The couple, who share two children, showcased a sprawling residence with a well-stocked pantry, a spacious kitchen, large windows, a heated treehouse for the kids, and an outdoor swimming pool. Valentina, a social media influencer, noted: "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." She added: "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!"
Rocky Relationship and Reconciliation
Fernandez and Valentina have endured a turbulent period. In 2024, they separated after he reportedly told her he no longer wished to be with her. The split was made official in October that year, with Valentina admitting they needed space. Fernandez was subsequently linked to Argentine rapper Nicki Nicole and model Pampita Ardohain, though both denied any involvement. By early 2025, reports emerged of a reconciliation, which Valentina confirmed with an Instagram post. When asked about second chances 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." The couple now appears happy, with Valentina supporting Fernandez at the World Cup in North America.
Racism Storm After Copa America
Chelsea was rocked in July 2024 when footage emerged of Fernandez and Argentina teammates singing an alleged racist chant after their 1-0 win over Colombia in the Copa America final. Fernandez posted a video of the song aimed at the French national team. He later apologized: "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 teammates Malo Gusto, Axel Disasi, and Wesley Fofana unfollowed him on Instagram; Fofana posted the video with the caption: "Football in 2024: uninhibited racism." Chelsea issued a statement confirming an internal disciplinary procedure was underway.
Transfer Fury and Real Madrid Links
Former Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior confirmed in April that Fernandez missed an FA Cup tie against Port Vale after "a line was crossed" when the Argentine talked up 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 later confirmed they are not in talks for a transfer. New Blues manager Xabi Alonso has expressed a desire to keep Fernandez: when asked if he wanted to retain the midfielder, Alonso responded affirmatively and added: "We have spoken. But, as you can understand, what we said will remain private."
