The World Cup-winning Argentine midfielder has improved his performance by understanding the coach’s expectations.
Enzo Fernández initially struggled after joining Chelsea for a record British transfer fee but has recently found great form. The Argentine midfielder credits his improved performance to better understanding what coach Enzo Maresca expects of him.
Chelsea signed Fernández from Benfica in January last year for €121 million, making him the most expensive player in British football history. However, he couldn’t live up to the expectations right away. In the 2022-23 Premier League season, he failed to score in 18 matches and managed only two assists. In the 2023-24 season, he scored three goals and provided two assists in 28 league matches.
This season, Fernández started six of the first seven league matches but failed to make an impact, contributing to neither a goal nor an assist. As a result, he lost his place in the starting XI.
However, since returning to the starting lineup last month, his form has dramatically improved. In his last seven league matches, he has scored three goals and provided four assists.
In an interview with ESPN, the 23-year-old explained how better communication with the coach has helped him.
“I’ve understood the position I need to play. Over time, I’ve gained a better idea of what the coach wants. He (Maresca) explained what he needed from me, and I’ve been able to understand it and read the games better,” said Fernández.
“Personally, I’m feeling very good. The team has shown great mental strength, always working with humility to prove that achieving something special is possible. There’s still a long way to go.”
Enzo Maresca, who led Leicester City to the Championship title and promotion to the Premier League in the 2023-24 season, took over as Chelsea’s head coach in June, replacing Mauricio Pochettino.
Chelsea will face Fulham in their next league match on Thursday. With 35 points from 17 matches, Maresca’s side is currently second in the league table, four points behind Liverpool, who have played one game less.
