In a stunning twist to the Premier League title race, Chelsea snatched a dramatic 1-1 draw away at Manchester City with a 94th-minute equaliser from Enzo Fernandez. The result, which came on Saturday the 4th of January 2026, deals a significant blow to City's championship ambitions and provides a major boost for league leaders Arsenal.
Late Drama at the Etihad as Chelsea Snatch a Point
The contest seemed destined to end in a narrow victory for the home side after Tijjani Reijnders broke the deadlock with a superb first-half strike. City dominated possession and created numerous chances but were plagued by wasteful finishing. This profligacy ultimately proved costly deep into stoppage time.
With just moments remaining, Chelsea's Malo Gusto raced down the right flank and delivered a low cross. After a scramble in the box, the ball fell to Enzo Fernandez at the back post, who bundled it home despite an initial save from goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. The goal sent the travelling Chelsea supporters into raptures and silenced the Etihad Stadium.
Rodri's Return Overshadowed by City's Missed Chances
The match marked the long-awaited return of Rodri to Manchester City's starting lineup, his first Premier League start in three months. The Spanish midfielder delivered an assured performance, anchoring the play and creating more chances than any other player on the pitch.
However, his influence was undermined by his teammates' inability to convert their dominance into a secure lead. Alongside Reijnders' goal, City's other major talking point was a forced substitution, as defender Josko Gvardiol succumbed to an injury early in the second half after a challenge on Gusto, with Abdukodir Khusanov replacing him.
Caretaker Boss and Title Implications
The game was Chelsea's first under interim manager Calum McFarlane, who took temporary charge following the sacking of Enzo Maresca on New Year's Day. McFarlane made five changes to the side, including starting Filip Jorgensen in goal.
While news broke before kick-off that Liam Rosenior was finalising a deal to become the permanent manager, McFarlane oversaw a resilient defensive display that laid the foundation for the late, priceless equaliser. The single point severely dents Manchester City's title challenge and hands the initiative to Mikel Arteta's Arsenal at the top of the table.
