Chelsea's Fernández Remains Sidelined Amid Unresolved Issues
Enzo Fernández will not feature in Chelsea's crucial Premier League encounter against Manchester City this Sunday, with head coach Liam Rosenior confirming that the midfielder's situation remains unresolved despite a recent apology. The Argentine international, signed for £106.7 million, was dropped for two matches after controversial comments about his future, and Chelsea have maintained a firm stance, opting not to reinstate him early despite his positive response to suspension.
Rosenior indicated that there are still "few hurdles to overcome" before Fernández can return to action, though he declined to elaborate on the specifics. "He won’t play on Sunday, but hopefully after that he’ll be a massive part of the group moving forward," Rosenior stated. "There’s still a few hurdles that need to be overcome that I won’t go into, but at the same time I want every player really, really focused now on a huge run."
When questioned about whether these hurdles could delay Fernández's return for the upcoming match against Manchester United, Rosenior responded cryptically, "Not in this moment." He also dismissed reports from Argentina suggesting that teammates had advocated for the suspension to be lifted, emphasizing that Chelsea are capable of securing a victory over City without the influential midfielder.
In Fernández's absence, Moisés Caicedo is set to captain the side, with Cole Palmer expected to play a pivotal role against his former club. Rosenior praised Palmer's commitment, noting, "I have to give Cole so much credit because he’s put himself up to play for this club, maybe at times where other players wouldn’t. A lot of people speak about Cole’s commitment to this club, how much he buys into what we’re doing. He’s fully invested in what we do."
Guardiola Insists City Must Win Every Game to Challenge Arsenal
Pep Guardiola has issued a stark warning to his Manchester City squad, asserting that they must win every remaining fixture to stand any chance of clinching the Premier League title. Currently trailing Arsenal by nine points with a game in hand, City face a critical test at Stamford Bridge this Sunday. "In the situation we are in the Premier League, we need to win all of them, otherwise it will not give us the chance to try until the end," Guardiola declared. "We have not been consistent enough this season. We have dropped points that we should have taken, which is why we are now in the position where we cannot do anything differently."
Guardiola also addressed the future of Bernardo Silva, joking about his frustration that the Portuguese midfielder has not informed him of any departure plans, despite speculation linking him with a summer exit. Silva, who has made 450 appearances for City since joining from Monaco in 2017, has been a cornerstone of Guardiola's success, winning six Premier League titles. "I’m so angry with Bernardo because a month ago I said: ‘If you take a decision you have to be the first to tell me.’ He didn’t say anything yet," Guardiola remarked. He praised Silva's versatility and intelligence, highlighting his ability to play multiple positions effectively.
Arteta Believes Arsenal's Long Wait Makes Title Sweeter
Mikel Arteta has expressed that winning the Premier League this season would hold special significance for Arsenal, given their 22-year drought since last lifting the trophy. With Arsenal set to face Bournemouth on Saturday, a victory would extend their lead over City to 12 points, applying further pressure on their rivals. Arteta urged fans to arrive early for the match, emphasizing the importance of their support. "Embrace the opportunity, the difficulty. I think the outcome when we reach that is going to be totally different to any other club," Arteta said. "This one is a very particular one – in the Premier League because it’s been 22 years and the Champions League has never been done before. So that has to fill you with enthusiasm, energy and there’s the possibility and the probability that it’s very big to do it."
Arteta also provided updates on player fitness, confirming that Eberechi Eze is ready to return from a calf injury earlier than anticipated, though doubts remain over Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard. He praised Eze's determination and recovery, stating, "The will that he’s shown from day one to get back as quick as possible, how he’s pushed the medical staff and himself to be there, it’s just great to watch." Regarding his own future, Arteta affirmed his commitment to Arsenal, with contract extension talks underway. "I’m fully committed here. I’m really happy and I feel good. My family is good. I still have so much ambition and things to do in this football club."
Howe Asserts Alignment with Newcastle Chief Executive
Eddie Howe has dismissed speculation about his future at Newcastle United, insisting that his relationship with chief executive David Hopkinson remains strong and aligned. This comes after Hopkinson's comments during the international break hinted at potential changes in the managerial setup. "For me nothing has changed," Howe asserted. "I’m 100% committed to the job. That commitment has never wavered from my side. I am right across everything for the summer and next season with Ross [Wilson, Newcastle’s sporting director] and David, whether that is potentials during the transfer window or pre-season schedules."
Howe described a recent lunch meeting with Hopkinson as constructive and focused on future planning, denying any falling-outs. He also defended his involvement in player recruitment, a role where he holds significant influence compared to many Premier League managers. "Judge me by every signing we’ve made since I’ve been here," Howe said. "Not just by one or two that people want to sort of beat with a stick about. Across the board I think we’ve recruited really well. I’m really proud of our recruitment. Every player we’ve signed has been chased and endorsed by myself."
Pereira Calls for Premier League Schedule Adjustments to Aid European Campaigns
Vítor Pereira has urged the Premier League to reconsider fixture scheduling to better support clubs competing in European competitions, arguing that such changes could enhance England's chances of securing more continental silverware. Nottingham Forest, who host Aston Villa on Sunday, faced a quick turnaround after their Europa League match in Porto, with less than 48 hours of recovery time. Pereira pointed to examples in France and Portugal, where leagues have adjusted schedules to accommodate European fixtures. "In my opinion, to protect the teams who are playing in the Europa League and the Conference League especially, and even the Champions League, just one day after is very important to get results," Pereira explained. "Sometimes it’s important to protect the clubs, to give them the chance to win more titles."
Despite Forest's strong position in the Europa League, Pereira emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on Premier League survival, acknowledging the competitive nature of the relegation battle. "I cannot forget the Premier League because I need to be responsible … Of course I want to win the Europa League. I did it an assistant coach [with Porto]. But we are competing with West Ham, Tottenham and Leeds [in the Premier League]. And it’s not easy to compete with these kinds of clubs. If we are not in the Premier League, it will be a disaster."
Sunderland Aim for Consistent Top-Seven Finishes Under Le Bris
Régis Le Bris has outlined ambitious long-term goals for Sunderland, targeting consistent top-seven finishes in the Premier League as the club seeks to establish itself as a force in English football. Currently sitting in 11th place after promotion, Sunderland have impressed with notable victories over rivals Newcastle. "It is clear what the board want, they want to be a strong club, consistently in the top 10 in the Premier League and, maybe after one or two more years, the top six or seven," Le Bris said. "That is their vision and I share that vision. We want to grow, we want to become a bigger club. We are ambitious, this is not the end of the story."
Le Bris also expressed admiration for Tottenham's new head coach, Roberto De Zerbi, whose tactical approach he has studied extensively. "He’s a great coach," Le Bris remarked. "Is it my style? Not always but he’s got good ideas and a clear identity. That’s important." On the injury front, Le Bris confirmed that Robin Roefs, Nordi Mukiele, Reinildo, and Enzo Le Fée are fit to start, though Dan Ballard will miss another week due to a hamstring issue.
