Paul Merson is convinced Enzo Fernandez has already informed Liam Rosenior he wants to go away Chelsea this summer.
Fernandez’s future at Stamford Bridge has been plunged into doubt after a series of interviews where he refused to commit his long-term future to the club.
Through the international break, he further fuelled talk of a move to Real Madrid after claiming he would ‘really like’ to live within the Spanish capital.
His comments have seen Chelsea take motion with Rosenior confirming on Friday that Fernandez will now sit out of the club’s next two games against Port Vale and Manchester City.
Marc Cucurella made similarly provocative remarks throughout the break, admitting he would find it difficult to show down a move to Barcelona this summer. However the Spain international has avoided any punishment for now.
Rosenior claimed ‘a line was crossed’ when Fernandez refused to rule out a move to Real but Merson believes the Blues boss has made a mistake in his handling of the situation.
‘I believe more’s gone on than that. I believe Enzo has sat down with him and told him I need to go away,’ Merson told Sky Sports.
Get your football fix
Metro‘s weekly newsletter In The Mixer delivers punchy evaluation and breakdowns of the largest football stories on to your inbox.
Join here, it’s an open goal.
‘I’ve seen Cucurella have a gathering with him. But Enzo has gone in and said I need to go away.
‘One thing you’ve gotten to do as a manager is rarely chop your nose off to spite your face. Let the fans take care of that situation. Not you.
‘The fans will let you understand in the event that they are unhappy with Enzo. But play him on the pitch. He’s considered one of Chelsea’s best players. It’s disappointing as a Chelsea fans, and it’s only excellent news for Man City.’
Rosenior’s comments have also sparked an offended response from Fernandez’s agent who feels his client has been treated unfairly.
Javier Pastore told The Athletic: ‘The punishment is totally unfair — banning the player for 2 matches, which furthermore are also absolutely crucial for Chelsea because qualification for the Champions League is at stake and he’s considered one of the team’s most significant players.
‘Alongside others, after all, but he has proven himself this 12 months to be a frontrunner and a key player, the backbone of this Chelsea side.
‘I believe it’s far too harsh given Chelsea’s current situation, and there’s no real reason or justification for why he has been banned.’
MORE: Chelsea near signing £8.7m Strasbourg midfielder Valentin Barco
MORE: ‘Can do all the things’ – Nicky Butt suggestions Man Utd to sign England star they sold for £15m
MORE: Chelsea urged to make stunning transfer bid for £47.5m Man City star