Manchester City fans have delivered a clear verdict on Enzo Fernandez's form: 74% of voters in a poll think the club's £125million record signing should be dropped when Premier League football returns. Only 18% believe Fernandez should keep his place, while the remaining 8% are unsure.
Midfield balance under scrutiny
City's strong start under manager Enzo Maresca has been marred by a few poor displays, prompting fans to analyse the team's issues. While goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma has made costly mistakes and Marc Guehi has underperformed, problems also exist beyond the defensive line.
The midfield has lacked balance in recent matches, with Elliot Anderson attempting to hold together a unit that is not functioning as Maresca would like. Fernandez, signed as the trusted lieutenant to help Maresca settle into new surroundings, has come under question.
Bouaddi touted as replacement
Calls for Ayyoub Bouaddi to be given a run in the side have increased in recent weeks, and he could be the answer should Maresca decide to drop Fernandez.
City will look to bounce back from their recent blip when they host Fulham on Saturday. Despite the tough recent weeks, City have seven wins from 10 Premier League games, are in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup, and sit in the top eight of the Champions League table, a record that suggests the post-Pep Guardiola drop-off many anticipated has not materialised.
