Xabi Alonso has dismissed suggestions that Enzo Fernández was dropped from Chelsea’s squad for their Carabao Cup victory over Luton Town because of reported interest from Manchester City.
Fernández was surprisingly left out of the squad altogether as Chelsea secured a 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, despite Alonso stating a day earlier that he expected the Argentina international to feature.
Reports from Argentina had claimed Fernández requested not to play amid speculation over his future, but Alonso insisted his omission was purely a footballing decision designed to give other members of the squad an opportunity.
“We assess individually, collectively what is the best for the team for tonight, what is better for other players that were playing,” he said.
“It was our decision, from myself and from the club.”
Manchester City are reportedly preparing an offer for the 25-year-old midfielder despite Chelsea’s informal deadline for receiving proposals having already passed.
Fernández initially expressed a desire to leave Stamford Bridge in May, with Chelsea valuing the World Cup winner at £120 million ($163m).
However, no formal offer arrived before the club’s Aug. 13 deadline, leading Chelsea to believe the situation had been settled.
Asked directly whether Fernández’s absence was connected to discussions with Manchester City, Alonso rejected the suggestion.
“No, it was just because of the game today. We have other players that need minutes. It was that way. It’s a decision that I took.
“He’s a good professional. He’s training well. I have nothing to say about him. It was just a decision we had to take, thinking about the game we were playing tonight. We will see for Sunday.”
Fernández has faced a mixed reception from Chelsea supporters in recent weeks. Some fans booed him when he came on during a preseason friendly against Real Sociedad, while others showed their support.
Meanwhile, Chelsea have strengthened their goalkeeping options by agreeing a deal to sign Emiliano Martínez from Aston Villa for £7.5 million ($10.2m).
The move comes after Robert Sánchez made two costly errors that led to goals during Chelsea’s 3-2 Premier League victory over Fulham on Monday.
Sánchez was left on the bench against Luton, with 21-year-old Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders making his senior debut for the club.
Penders had little to do during the match but impressed Alonso with his composure under pressure.
“Mike will have games with more work,” said Alonso. “But you could see in some moments he was under pressure, he plays calm. He didn’t make many saves but he’s great for the future and for the present as well.”
Despite Chelsea previously indicating satisfaction with their goalkeeping options, Alonso said the club remained open to making changes before the transfer window closes.
“We are happy with the squad we have. But I have always said we need to be aware of situations. There is still this period where we can make decisions.”
Chelsea advanced to the Carabao Cup third round after Danny Welbeck scored on his debut before Luton defender Hakeem Odoffin added an own goal.
The Blues will face Leeds at Stamford Bridge in the next round.
