“Rosenior guarantees good relationship with Fernandez despite suspension.”

Liam Rosenior issues a clear warning at Stamford Bridge: despite the controversial suspension that kept Enzo Fernandez out, the coach assures that his relationship with the Argentine midfielder is “in a good place.” The decision to sideline Fernandez for two matches, including the crucial clash against Manchester City in the Premier League, has sent shockwaves through the blue half of London, especially after the midfielder hinted at a possible exit at the end of the season.

Last Saturday, Chelsea crushed Port Vale 7-0 in the FA Cup quarter-finals, but Fernandez’s absence was noticeable. The 25-year-old Argentine watched the rout from the bench, a decision that did not sit well with his agent, who described the suspension as “completely unfair.” The tense atmosphere has deep roots: following rumors of interest from Real Madrid, the relationship between Rosenior and Fernandez appeared strained, particularly after a series of four consecutive defeats that culminated in their elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain.

However, the coach left no doubt about the future of the relationship between the two. “That’s his opinion,” Rosenior responded regarding the criticisms from Fernandez’s agent. “I don’t get caught up in other people’s opinions. Enzo knows what I think of him, and it was excellent to see him here supporting his teammates today.” Rosenior emphasized that the time to discuss the player’s situation has not yet arrived, but assured that the dialogue between the two is solid. “Enzo and I are in a very good place. I had a very good and personal conversation with him today. Things are not what people think.”

While the focus is on restructuring the squad, the absence of Fernandez and Reece James opened the door for Cole Palmer to wear the captain’s armband for the first time. The young Englishman, who has also been the subject of rumors about a possible return to Manchester, rose to the challenge. “It’s a natural step in Cole’s career,” said Rosenior. “Leadership can take many forms – some people speak and organize, while others lead by example. Cole is brave, he faces the game head-on, and even if he makes mistakes, he tries again with positivity.” The coach concluded: “Today, Cole led the team magnificently.”

In the match against Port Vale, the goals came early and in quick succession: Jorrel Hato and João Pedro opened the scoring in the first half, followed by an own goal from Jordan Lawrence-Gabriel before the break. In the second half, Tosin Adarabioyo, Andrey Santos, Estevão Willian, and Alejandro Garnacho completed the rout, showcasing Chelsea’s strength even without some of their stars.

With Fernandez’s future uncertain and Rosenior asserting his total control over the group, Chelsea is preparing for a crucial phase of the season. The clash with Manchester City promises to be a litmus test for the coach’s decisions and the players’ response on the pitch. The atmosphere at Stamford Bridge is far from peaceful, but one thing is certain: Rosenior is determined to assert his authority and keep Chelsea in the race for the Champions League.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.