Fernandez's Chelsea future uncertain as Alonso seeks commitment

Chelsea's Argentine midfielder Xabi Alonso expressed his desire for players who feel motivated to play for the club following Enzo Fernandez's absence in Thursday's League Cup win over Luton. The 25-year-old Fernandez, linked with a potential move to Manchester City, has not yet attracted a suit that meets Chelsea's reported £120 million valuation for him.

Alonso, who made his mark as a Real Madrid boss, stated that the club needs to consider players who are in good form and possess the energy to play. He emphasized that Fernandez may not feature in the upcoming match against Brighton. The former Real Madrid coach highlighted the importance of players feeling a sense of desire to play and having adequate preparation.

Alonso also confirmed that Fernandez was omitted from the squad for Luton, deeming it the best decision at the time. He acknowledged Fernandez's talent but stated that selling him could alleviate pressure on Chelsea to meet financial sustainability regulations following another window of significant investment in the transfer market.

The club has made substantial additions, including Morgan Rogers, Maxence Lacroix, Marco Palestra, Valentin Barco, Pep Chavarria, Danny Welbeck, Emmanuel Emegha, and Geovany Quenda, along with Aston Villa's goalkeeper Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez. Departures, such as strikers Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson, have also impacted the squad.

Alonso, who previously advocated for a reduction in the bloated squad size, appears satisfied with the recent clear-out.