Enzo Fernandez stepped up as Chelsea’s decisive figure in the FA Cup semi‑final, delivering a header that snapped a long goal drought and secured a win over Leeds at Wembley. Wearing the captain’s armband, the Argentina international played with purpose, earning praise from interim coach Calum McFarlane for his relentless work rate in every match.

That performance came after Fernandez faced an internal ban over comments about a potential move to Real Madrid and survived a brief sidelining by former manager Liam Rosenior. McFarlane noted the midfielder’s tenacity, saying, “When it gets tough, you see the fight in him,” highlighting his defensive tackles and aerial presence that have defined Chelsea’s recent campaign.

Chelsea will face Man City in the final, with Fernandez set to start his 150th match for the club. The Argentine’s knack for late goals—eight of nine league strikes coming from inside the box—makes him a threat to City’s centre‑backs Abdukodir Khusanov and Marc Guehi. City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, remains uncertain about Rodri’s fitness today.

Meanwhile, Chelsea’s bench sees Pedro Neto, Alejandro Garnacho and goalkeeper Robert Sánchez vying for spots after recent injuries. Manager McFarlane confirmed that captains Reece James and Levi Colwill are fit, while Sánchez’s recovery remains unclear. City’s squad, missing Rodri, still boasts a healthy roster, with Guardiola urging a fresh approach for this Wembley showdown in 2024.