Enzo Fernandez reunites with Enzo Maresca at Manchester City and hails Argentine connection

Enzo Fernandez says he is delighted to be working with Enzo Maresca again after the midfielder joined Manchester City in a deal that makes him the joint most expensive player in Premier League history, alongside Liverpool striker Alexander Isak.

Fernandez previously worked with Maresca during the Italian coach’s 18-month spell at Chelsea and believes their relationship played an important role in his move to Manchester City.

“Enzo Maresca is a top-class coach. I worked with him at Chelsea and those were wonderful moments. I learned a lot from him,” Fernandez told Manchester City’s official website.

The Argentina international said Maresca’s personality reminded him of people from Latin America, particularly because of his enthusiasm and emotional approach to football.

“He is very similar to the people of Latin America, he is very passionate. So, for me, it is a pleasure to work with him,” Fernandez added.

The midfielder also revealed that Maresca had worked hard behind the scenes to help make the transfer happen, despite the difficulties involved in completing the move.

“I am also grateful because he played a very important role in bringing me here. So it is a pleasure to work alongside him and enjoy it,” he said.

“To be honest, we were both really looking forward to it happening, because it was not easy for me to be here today.

“But I know he also made a big effort, speaking to the club, and I am grateful that he did that. It was a long few days, but in the end I am here and I am very happy to join this club.”

Fernandez will continue Manchester City’s strong links with Argentine football, following a succession of players from the country who have made a significant impact at the club.

“Honestly, great Argentine players have come through here and made history, such as Aguero, Otamendi and the players I mentioned,” he said.

“Manchester City, not only in Argentina but all over the world, is one of the biggest clubs in the world. Everyone sees it that way.

“And even more so in Argentina, because many players have come through here.”

Fernandez has selected the number 17 shirt at Manchester City because it was the first number he wore for Argentina.

His arrival follows Rodri’s move to Barcelona and Tijjani Reijnders’ departure for Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah. Tottenham Hotspur have also signed Savinho and Omar Marmoush.

Fernandez spent 18 months playing under Maresca at Chelsea before the manager moved on from Stamford Bridge. During his time with Chelsea, Fernandez made 170 appearances, scoring 31 goals and providing 30 assists.

Manchester City announced the signing of the Argentina midfielder as a record-equalling Premier League transfer, putting the value of the move level with Isak’s switch to Liverpool.