Chelsea supporters split over Enzo Fernandez in Real Sociedad victory

Enzo Fernandez was booed by part of the Chelsea support during Saturday’s 3-1 friendly win over Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge, although the midfielder later received a more positive response from the crowd.

The match was Chelsea’s final pre-season fixture before the start of the new campaign. Fernandez came on in the 64th minute to replace Reece James, who handed him the captain’s armband as he left the pitch.

According to French outlet RMC, sections of the home support responded to Fernandez’s arrival with jeers. It was the Argentina international’s first appearance for Chelsea since returning from the World Cup, where Argentina lost the final 1-0 to Spain.

Other Chelsea supporters applauded Fernandez as he entered the field, creating a mixed reception inside Stamford Bridge. The intensity of the booing gradually faded as the second half continued, and the mood eventually shifted in the midfielder’s favour.

Sky Sports reported that the crowd ended up chanting: “Oh, Enzo Fernandez”.

The initial reaction reflected frustration among some Chelsea fans over Fernandez’s future. The midfielder has been criticised by supporters who believe he wants to leave the club this summer, particularly after Chelsea failed to qualify for the Champions League.

Fernandez fuelled speculation earlier this summer when he spoke about his ambition to play for Real Madrid one day. Those comments led to him being left out of Chelsea’s squad for two matches.

The midfielder has now also attracted interest from Manchester City. That possibility is linked to the potential departure of Rodri to Barcelona, while former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is regarded as one of Fernandez’s strongest admirers.

Despite the controversy surrounding his situation, Fernandez was involved in Chelsea’s final preparation for the new season and wore the captain’s armband after replacing James. The 3-1 victory over Real Sociedad gave Chelsea a positive result before competitive football begins, even as the divided response to Fernandez highlighted the uncertainty surrounding his position at the club.

Chelsea’s supporters ultimately offered the midfielder encouragement, but the reaction showed that some remain unhappy with the possibility of his departure. His earlier comments about Real Madrid, combined with Manchester City’s reported interest, have kept his future at Stamford Bridge under intense scrutiny.