Fernandez back to face Man Utd but Chelsea's problems remain
The Argentina midfielder, 25, gave three interviews while away with his national side, referring to his desire to one day live in Spain's capital, having been heavily linked with Spanish giants Real Madrid. That led to a two-match internal ban, jointly decided by head coach Liam Rosenior and the club hierarchy. The suspension has now ended, although not before attempts by Fernandez's agent, Javier Pastore, to have it reduced by a game.
As a result, Fernandez missed Chelsea 's 7–0 FA Cup semi-final win against League Two side Port Vale and, more significantly, Sunday's 3–0 home defeat by Manchester City . In the final interview, Pastore suggested Chelsea 's failure to qualify for the Champions League could be an issue for his client. The Blues later lost again, leaving themselves four points behind fifth-placed Liverpool in the Premier League table.
Internally, however, there appears to be little regret over the punishment. Rosenior later revealed the final "hurdle" was consultation with Chelsea 's leadership group, including captain Reece James, Moises Caicedo and Levi Colwill. Fernandez is now available for Saturday's match against Manchester United in what is becoming a must-win fixture if Chelsea are to secure Champions League qualification - a pre-season target.
Any slip, though, could yet see them miss out on European football altogether. Dropping Fernandez - a sign of Rosenior's authority or a big risk? Time running out to make Champions League - Rosenior Fernandez returns after team-mate talks - Rosenior Chelsea 's attempts to move on from the episode involving their number eight reflect a desire to steady the situation at an early stage.
Fernandez has 12 goals and six assists this season, placing him behind only striker Joao Pedro for goal involvements, in 46 appearances. He remains regarded internally as a marquee player, with Rosenior offering public praise even while enforcing the ban. It may be a rational short-term approach, but the longer-term solution is more straightforward: money.