Man City breaks the bank for Enzo Fernandez

Argentine World Cup-winning midfielder and Chelsea’s number #8 Enzo Fernandez equals the all-time British transfer record to join Chelsea’s Premier League rivals Manchester City on a 5-year deal.

The deal went through during the final closing hours of the transfer market deadline day. The midfield maestro will be receiving £125m annually. He became the only player in Premier League history to be bought for over £100m twice.

Fernandez joined Chelsea on an 8.5-year long contract from Benfica in 2023. However, the player wanted to part ways with the club as the exit was driven by a combination of frustration over tactical friction with management, public fallout with supporters, and a strong pull to work with Enzo Maresca again.

Following Chelsea’s Champions League elimination at the hands of PSG, Fernandez gave interviews hinting at an uncertain future at Chelsea. The fans found these statements disrespectful and got hostile and booed him during a pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad, all of which added to the desire for him to leave the club. 

Manchester City’s newly appointed manager Enzo Maresca set his eyes on the Argentine midfielder since his arrival at the Emirates. 

They worked together before at Chelsea and supposedly had a great coach-player relationship. This was one of the prime reasons why Manchester City broke the bank for Fernandez. Nevertheless, after the departure of Ballon d’Or winner and World Cup MVP Rodri, the Sky Blues needed to fill the void. Enzo had a commanding performance in the World Cup 2026, and therefore he was in Manchester City’s best interests.

Following the transfer, Fernandez left a farewell message on Instagram where he admitted to fans that he "wasn't in a good place" during his final months in London. In his final statement, he also thanked the fans and his teammates for the love and support they gave him. 

"He is a complete midfielder: technically gifted, hardworking, tenacious and a goal scorer. We are delighted to bring him here and feel very strongly he will improve our team," added Manchester City’s Director of Football, showcasing high expectations for the Argentine.