Archive · 28 Aug 2026
Alonso Defends Leaving Enzo Fernández Out Amid Manchester City Interest
Chelsea coach Xabi Alonso decided not to include Enzo Fernández in a recent match.
He said players need to feel ready and eager to play.
Alonso still called Fernández a top player.
Chelsea won the game against Luton Town 2-0 without him.
New signing Danny Welbeck scored his first goal for Chelsea.
Luton also scored an own goal for Chelsea’s benefit.
Reports say Manchester City may be interested in Fernández.
If he leaves, Chelsea would have little time to find another midfielder before the transfer window closes.
Chelsea coach Xabi Alonso defended leaving Enzo Fernández out of Thursday’s League Cup squad.
Alonso said Chelsea needs players who are in the best condition and show a desire to play.
Chelsea defeated third-tier Luton Town 2-0 without Fernández.
Danny Welbeck scored on his Chelsea debut, while Luton also conceded an own goal.
Reported Manchester City interest could leave Chelsea little time to find a replacement before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.
- Who
- Chelsea coach Xabi Alonso and midfielder Enzo Fernández are central to the decision, with reported interest from Manchester City.
- What
- Alonso defended leaving Fernández out of Chelsea’s League Cup squad against Luton Town.
- When
- The omission occurred on Thursday; Alonso discussed it Friday before Sunday’s Premier League match against Brighton. The transfer window closes Tuesday.
- Where
- The match was played in the context of Chelsea’s League Cup campaign; the articles identify Chelsea as being in London.
- Why
- Alonso said selection depends on players’ form, condition, preparation, and desire to play.
Alonso’s Selection Rationale
Transfer and Squad Concerns
Leaving Fernández out
Alonso’s Selection Rationale
Alonso said Chelsea must select players in the best situation to play and who show the desire and energy required for good preparation.
Transfer and Squad Concerns
The decision came amid reported Manchester City interest in Fernández, creating uncertainty about his immediate future.
Potential replacement
Alonso’s Selection Rationale
Chelsea proceeded to a 2-0 League Cup victory over Luton Town without Fernández, with Danny Welbeck scoring on debut.
Transfer and Squad Concerns
A deal for Fernández would give Chelsea little time to sign a replacement before the transfer window closes Tuesday.
- Manager
- Xabi Alonso
- Player omitted
- Enzo Fernández
- Opponent
- Luton Town
- Result
- Chelsea won 2-0
- Chelsea scorers
- Danny Welbeck and a Luton Town own goal
- Reported transfer interest
- Manchester City
- Transfer deadline
- Tuesday