Enzo Fernandez has been left out of the Chelsea squad for Thursday night's Carabao Cup clash against Luton Town, with head coach Xabi Alonso confirming the decision was made after assessing individual and collective situations.
The Argentina international's future at Stamford Bridge remains in doubt, with Manchester City expected to launch a bid to sign him before Tuesday's transfer deadline day. Chelsea had initially set a deadline of last Friday for their Premier League rivals to sign the former Benfica star, but City declined to make their move before then. The Blues are reportedly asking for £120million for the 25-year-old.
Alonso's explanation
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of kick-off, Alonso said: 'We assessed situations, individual and collective and we have decided he is not in the squad for today.'
Asked whether he wants clarity on the situation, he added: 'Let's see. We need to be prepared for everything. Today is focusing on the game.'
Transfer deadline implications
The omission comes as the transfer window approaches its close, with City yet to formalise their interest. Chelsea's asking price remains a key sticking point, and the club's stance on Fernandez's future could hinge on whether an acceptable offer arrives before the deadline.
