“Pochettino thanks for not holding him back”, “Put some respect to his name” – Chelsea fans hails 22-year-old super star display in 4-0 win over Preston
Chelsea fans have hailed Enzo Fernandez following his impressive performance in his side’s 4-0 win against Preston North End on Saturday (January 6).
Mauricio Pochettino’s Blues cruised through to the fourth round of the FA Cup, courtesy of a dominant second-half performance. Armando Broja, Thiago Silva, Raheem Sterling, and Fernandez were on the scoresheet.
Fernandez’s strike came in the 85th minute as he volleyed home from close range to cap off a fine performance. The Argentine midfielder also made three key passes, won five of seven ground duels, and found his man with seven of 12 long ball attempts.
The 2022 FIFA World Cup winner has encountered a somewhat difficult time at Chelsea since arriving in January 2022. He joined in a then-British transfer record €121 million deal from Benfica.
Fernandez has failed to hit the heights many anticipated thus far at Stamford Bridge. He’s managed three goals and as many assists in 43 games across competitions.However, his performance against Preston earned him plaudits from fans on social media. One fan alluded to the amount of criticism he’s received since joining the west Londoners:
“I will never, ever understand the hate. Enzo Fernández is one of the best midfielders in world football.”
Another fan echoed those sentiments:
“NEVER gonna stop the Enzo praise until he gets the recognition he deserves. He simply is one of the best midfielders even in the world even in a dysfunctional team.”
Here’s how fans on X (formerly Twitter) reacted to Fernandez’s display against Prestons
@CFCMod_: Brother Enzo I wasn’t familiar with your game.
Masha Allah. ????????
@TheChelseaWay: Enzo with fluid groin movement and a goal
@Asadcfc66: Enzo has been superb today and I’m so happy for him. He really deserved that goal.
Certain portions of the fanbase that have an agenda against him clearly have no ball knowledge if you can’t see what he brings to the team.
Put some respect on Enzo’s name, what a player
@CFCdruw: I will never, ever understand the hate.
Enzo Fernández is one of the best midfielders in world football.
@ElliotGCFC: NEVER gonna stop the Enzo praise until he gets the recognition he deserves. He simply is one of the best midfielders even in the world even in a dysfunctional team.
@SeunMobolaji: Enzo playing much deeper and controlling the game especially in the 2nd half was so needed. He played well today
@FelixJohnston_: ENZO GOALLLL. That took absolutely ages, but Enzo’s performance thoroughly deserved that goal
Sterling did very well to create the chance
@jabarzee: Pochettino didn’t hold back Enzo Fernandez today ????????????
@_oliseh254: Enzo Fernandez
I say it again he’s competing alone as the best CM itw