Chelsea fans divided on Enzo Fernandez during first appearance since World Cup and transfer deadline

Enzo Fernandez was given a mixed reception on his Chelsea return amid speculation over his future.

The Argentine was handed his first pre-season minutes in Saturday’s 3-1 win over Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge.

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Fans made their feelings clear when he replaced Reece James in the 62nd minute of the game.

As his name was read out over the public address system, a chorus of boos were heard coming from the stands.

Some fans opted to give Fernandez their backing by cheering the star as he stood on the touchline.

Once he had entered the pitch, some fans booed every touch of the ball while others chanted his name.

Fernandez had an eventful summer with Argentina in their run to the World Cup final.

The 25-year-old scored his country’s equalising goal in the semi-final victory over England before being sent off for two reckless bookings in the World Cup final defeat to Spain.

What next for Fernandez?

Fernandez told Chelsea in May of his desire to leave the club.

It was understood at the time that his preference was to move to Real Madrid.

But his hopes of a move to the Spanish capital were dashed last month, when the La Liga giants issued a statement saying that they were not planning on signing the star.

That had initially left Fernandez in limbo but recent interest from Manchester City could still see the star depart Stamford Bridge this summer.

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Chelsea slapped a £120million price tag on the Argentine while giving City a deadline of 5pm on Friday to table a bid, but no offers were received.

Chelsea, under the guidance of new head coach Xabi Alonso, are now planning to start the season with Fernandez as a key part of their plans.

Meanwhile, £117m record signing Morgan Rogers scored on his Stamford Bridge debut with a close-range finish after Joao Pedro’s header was saved by Real Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Remiro. 

The Brazilian striker proved decisive during the Blues’ final pre-season fixture, netting twice on a positive afternoon for Alonso’s side.

Alonso pleased with his side’s display

“It was a very good last preparation game,” Alonso told the club’s media after the match.

“For some players it was the first one and the last one. For us, there were some good things, some things we can improve. It’s normal at this moment for some players.

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AFP

“It was great to have all the team together. Some of them after three days could play for 60 minutes.

“It was the last test. Now we have a whole week to prepare for Fulham, but it was a good feeling in the stadium.”

Next up for Chelsea is their opening Premier League clash at Craven Cottage on Monday, August 24 – live on talkSPORT.