Enzo Fernandez Forced to Miss Argentina Duty with Knee Problem
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has delivered a concerning update on his fitness, confirming he will miss the upcoming international break with Argentina due to a persistent knee injury. The revelation came after he asked to be substituted during Chelsea's 3-0 victory over Wolves at Stamford Bridge on Saturday night.
A Long-Standing Issue
The World Cup winner disclosed that the issue, diagnosed as a bone edema in his right knee, has been troubling him for the past four months, since before the start of the current season. This type of injury involves a build-up of fluid within the bone, causing significant pain.
Fernandez was initially forced to withdraw from Argentina's camp during the international break last month. Despite Chelsea's efforts to manage his playing time, the 24-year-old stated the condition has worsened in recent weeks due to the demanding fixture schedule.
Prioritising Recovery
In a post-match interview with ESPN, Fernandez explained the joint decision to prioritise his recovery. 'I will not be available with Argentina,' he said. 'Me and the coaching staff have decided to rest together because I don't have time to rest with a lot of games. I think the most important thing is coming to the end of the season.'
He emphasised the severity of his recent discomfort, adding, 'In the last week I suffered a lot of pain and everyone here knows it.' The plan is now to use the two-week break for intensive recovery with the aim of returning to full fitness for Chelsea.
This means he will not feature for Argentina in their friendly against Angola in Luanda next Friday. The Argentine national team has already secured qualification for next year's World Cup.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the substitution was injury-related, noting, 'Enzo Fernandez did ask for a change... for the knee, so we will have to see how they are.' This development places a spotlight on the midfielder's long-term fitness and his importance to the Chelsea squad.
