Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior insists his relationship with midfielder Enzo Fernandez remains strong despite the Argentine being dropped for Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final win over Port Vale. Fernandez, a £100m signing from Benfica in 2022, was omitted as punishment for commenting on his future during the international break, reigniting speculation about a potential move to Real Madrid.<br><br>Rosenior dismissed claims of tension after a one-on-one conversation with Fernandez, stating, "Things aren't what people maybe think they are." The midfielder missed Chelsea's 7-0 victory but will also sit out next weekend's Premier League clash against Manchester City as disciplinary action. Rosenior emphasized focusing on team unity: "We'll move forward and make sure we have a really good run-in to the season."<br><br>Fernandez's agent, Javier Pastore, criticized the decision as "completely unfair," arguing the player never explicitly stated a desire to leave.

He noted stalled contract renewal talks, citing Fernandez's current contract running until 2032 and Chelsea's demand for over £100m for a sale. Real Madrid is reportedly targeting the 25-year-old as a £100m alternative to Manchester City's Rodri, though financial hurdles remain.<br><br>Pundit Paul Merson slammed Rosenior's decision, urging the club to "play him on the pitch" despite off-field speculation. Chelsea's summer transfer plans include signing a new midfielder, further complicating Fernandez's role.

The situation highlights the delicate balance between player ambitions and club loyalty in high-stakes football.