Enzo Fernandez was targeted with boos from the Chelsea supporters in their pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad, where debutant Morgan Rogers hit the back of the net. Joao Pedro netted twice as the Blues enjoyed a convincing display in Xabi Alonso’s pre-season ahead of the final transfer.
However, Fernandez’s inclusion became the main focus as he was thrown into the fray in the 62nd minute. The midfielder had been booed previously when his name was read out before the match as well.
A small section of supporters later sang Fernandez’s name in a split response to how supporters treated him following the transfer saga after a hectic window which could potentially see Chelsea end their pursuit of several targets.
The Argentine had openly wanted to move to Real Madrid earlier in the window before a move to the Bernabeu didn’t develop. He also saw meetings between representatives of clubs and Manchester City but wasn’t the target for any concrete moves for the Premier League side, who, according to reports, didn’t close in on Chelsea’s £120m valuation prior to the deadline for bids to be submitted on Friday.
Ultimately, Chelsea backed their player, and Fernandez was handed the captain’s armband by teammate Reece James after he was replaced.
Fernandez’s future will be uncertain no longer, as they are expecting to be in the good of keeping him, but supporter backlash could be one issue as the next season kicks off.
