Enzo Fernandez, the dynamic midfielder, has quickly emerged as a standout performer since his arrival at Chelsea. Despite initial struggles adapting to the Premier League, the 23-year-old has begun to showcase his immense talent, particularly in one notable statistical category: accurate long balls. According to WhoScored, Fernandez has outperformed every other player in the league in this regard, even surpassing renowned playmakers like Kevin De Bruyne.
Arriving at Stamford Bridge amidst a challenging period for Chelsea, Fernandez’s impact has been gradually felt, despite the team’s inconsistent performances. The Argentine, who joined the Blues after clinching the 2022 World Cup, endured a slow start but has steadily grown into a pivotal figure in west London. His recent memorable free-kick against Aston Villa in the FA Cup underscored his growing influence on the pitch.
With a reported transfer fee of €121m, expectations were high for Fernandez, and he has begun to deliver, tallying seven goals and one assist in 31 appearances across various competitions this season. However, it’s his proficiency in delivering accurate long balls that has truly set him apart. Since January 2023, he has recorded an impressive 230 such passes, eclipsing the likes of De Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes.
Despite speculation linking him to a move to Barcelona, Fernandez has adamantly expressed his commitment to Chelsea. Dismissing rumors of a potential transfer, he reaffirmed his desire to stay at Stamford Bridge for the foreseeable future. In an interview with ESPN following a convincing victory over Crystal Palace, Fernandez stated unequivocally that he’s content with life in London and remains focused on contributing to Chelsea’s success.
Having featured in almost every match this season, Fernandez’s importance to Chelsea’s midfield cannot be overstated. With a lengthy contract tying him to the club until 2031, he looks set to play a central role in the team’s ambitions for years to come. As he continues to mature and refine his game, Enzo Fernandez promises to be a key asset for Chelsea in their pursuit of silverware both domestically and in Europe.
