Erling Haaland outlines exactly what Chelsea are missing with Enzo Fernandez
Enzo Fernandez produced a masterful performance on Sunday afternoon as 10-man Man City beat rivals Man United at Old Trafford – and Erling Haaland has heaped praise on the signing from Chelsea.
Just 24 hours after Chelsea’s midfielders struggled to dominate against newly-promoted Hull City, Enzo Fernandez and Enzo Maresca combined to rub salt in the wounds. Phil Foden was sent off on 24 minutes.
It’s time to talk about our midfield situation… who’s getting your vote?
Yet, Maresca and Fernandez – who are used to playing with 10 men after last season at Chelsea – rallied at Old Trafford. It was Erling Haaland who scored the only goal of the game as City secured a huge victory.
Fernandez was front and centre throughout as City held on, even though Man United hit the woodwork through England internationals Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo. Eventually, it was a 1-0 City win.
Erling Haaland explains what Enzo Fernandez brings to City
An action-packed game saw Fernandez almost, inadvertently, play Haaland offside before his goal. Then, Fernandez hit the post, and Gianluigi Donnarumma produced a goal-saving stop to deny Bryan Mbuemo.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Haaland explained exactly why Fernandez is already loved by City supporters after his £125m move. It comes after Haaland pushed Fernandez in front of the away fans.
“Enzo and me, we love to fight and tackle and get on the ball and play. We gave it our all today,” Haaland underlined when asked about his new teammate, something which Chelsea are lacking in central midfield.
Haaland’s verdict on Fernandez is just what Chelsea are missing
In complete contrast, Chelsea struggled in midfield, with Xabi Alonso yet to replace Fernandez. Romeo Lavia struggled, winning just two duels throughout 69 minutes. Valentin Barco won three, in 21 minutes.
DISCUSS: It’s time for Xabi Alonso to start Valentin Barco…
The stats simply DO NOT lie 👇
Not only do Chelsea lack the quality of Fernandez, but they also lack the aggression. The fight to change a game. There is almost a feeling that Chelsea’s team have left it up to the front three to get a result.
Chelsea fans realised on Sunday that they miss Fernandez, if it was not obvious already. Haaland’s verdict on the World Cup winner underlines that – Chelsea are missing the Argentine’s fight in the middle.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
