Why Enzo Fernandez is not in Chelsea squad for pre-season friendly vs Western Sydney Wanderers

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez is absent from the club's pre-season tour of Australia, including the friendly against Western Sydney Wanderers. The Argentine international played deep into the 2026 World Cup, reaching the final on July 19, which ended just over a week before the match. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso granted Fernandez an extended rest period to prevent burnout and injury, leaving him out of the 27-man travelling squad. Other senior players like Pedro Neto and Reece James are also absent, allowing younger academy prospects to gain playing time. Fernandez will rejoin the team later to prepare for the 2026/27 Premier League season.

First published Aug 4, 02:51 PM UTCUpdated Jul 28, 08:32 AM UTC1 reports · 1 sources

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Why Enzo Fernandez is not in Chelsea squad for pre-season friendly vs Western Sydney Wanderers

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Why Enzo Fernandez is not in Chelsea squad for pre-season friendly vs Western Sydney WanderersMirror - FootballWesternJul 28, 08:32 AM UTC

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