Chelsea Players Make Special Request to Head Coach Liam Rosenior Ahead of Manchester City Clash

Chelsea  acknowledges reports that several senior players have approached head coach **Liam Rosenior** with a special request regarding the availability of midfielder **Enzo Fernández** for the upcoming Premier League fixture against Manchester City.

In a demonstration of dressing room solidarity, a number of the squad’s established players have urged the coaching staff to reconsider the current two-match internal suspension placed on Fernández, highlighting his importance to the team as they prepare for one of the most challenging matches of the season at the Etihad Stadium.

The request stems from the players’ belief that the Argentina international remains a vital figure in the squad, both for his on-pitch quality and his influence within the group. Fernández, who serves as vice-captain, has been a key performer since joining the club and continues to be highly valued by his teammates.

Head coach Liam Rosenior, speaking previously after Chelsea’s 7-0 FA Cup victory over Port Vale (a match Fernández watched from the stands), confirmed that the suspension was a collective club decision made to uphold team standards and culture following comments the midfielder made during the international break.

Rosenior has maintained an open and positive dialogue with Fernández throughout the situation, describing him as a “top, top guy” and emphasising that the “door is not closed.” He has also reaffirmed that Fernández remains part of the leadership group and that the sanction is short-term in nature.

While the club respects the strong bonds and unity within the playing squad, the disciplinary decision was taken jointly to protect the long-term values and environment being built at Chelsea. Rosenior has consistently stressed the importance of accountability, even in the face of high-stakes fixtures such as the visit to Manchester City.

The club continues to focus on moving forward as a unified group. Rosenior recently stated: “We’ve had really good conversations… Things aren’t always what people maybe think they are. We’ll move forward and make sure we have a really good run-in to the season.”

Enzo Fernández retains the full support of the coaching staff, ownership, and his teammates as he serves the remainder of his internal suspension. He is expected to return to full squad contention thereafter, with his long-term future at the club — under contract until 2032 — remaining secure.  

Chelsea Football Club will not be providing any further comment on internal squad matters at this time and respectfully asks the media and supporters to allow the team to prepare for the important Premier League encounter against Manchester City without additional speculation.