In a disturbing display of fan fury, Chelsea's World Cup-winning midfielder Enzo Fernandez found himself under physical attack from his former supporters during an emotional return to Benfica's Estádio da Luz.
A Hostile Homecoming
The Argentine international, who made a record-breaking £106 million move to Chelsea in January 2023, was subjected to missile-throwing from sections of the Benfica crowd as he watched Tuesday night's match from the stands.
Viral footage captured the alarming moment when objects came flying toward Fernandez, forcing him to raise his arms in self-defence while security personnel scrambled to provide protection.
The Root of the Rage
Benfica supporters' anger stems from Fernandez's departure from the Portuguese giants, with many believing the transfer fee didn't adequately reflect his market value. The deep-seated resentment has been simmering for months, boiling over during his first visit back to the club that launched his European career.
The situation became so volatile that stadium security had to form a protective cordon around the 23-year-old midfielder, who watched the remainder of the match under heightened protection.
Broader Security Concerns
This incident raises serious questions about player safety at football grounds, particularly when high-profile former players return to their old clubs. The attack on Fernandez represents one of the most visible examples of fan hostility toward a departing player in recent memory.
Football authorities will likely review security protocols following this dangerous episode, which could have resulted in serious injury to one of the sport's most valuable assets.
Fallout and Reaction
The football community has widely condemned the supporters' actions, with many expressing shock at the physical nature of the protest. Fernandez himself appeared shaken by the experience, though he has yet to make a public statement about the incident.
Benfica club officials now face pressure to identify and sanction those responsible, while Chelsea monitors the wellbeing of their record signing following this traumatic homecoming.
