Enzo Fernandez has been left out of the Chelsea squad for the next two matches after comments about his future have destabilized the club.
The Argentina international spoke to reporters while on international duty and refused to rule out a potential move to Real Madrid, fueling speculation he could leave Stamford Bridge after more than three years in west London.
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The controversy follows Chelsea's recent exit from the UEFA Champions League, where the Blues suffered an 8-2 aggregate defeat to French Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Fernández told ESPN Argentina that he was uncertain about his future at the club, a stance he reiterated in subsequent interviews with Argentine media.
Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior confirmed that disciplinary action had been taken.
Rosenior said, “I spoke to Enzo. As part of the football club, he will not be available tomorrow or for Manchester City.”
“It's disappointing to speak like this. As a character and person, I have no bad words to say. But a line was crossed. We had to be cleared.”
Rosenior said that although he maintained respect for Fernandez, the decision was necessary.
“I have the utmost respect for Enzo Fernandez as a character, person and player. He is disappointed because he wanted Chelsea to be successful this year. We can still be there. It was a joint decision.”
Fernandez was also believed to be upset by the departure of former manager Enzo Maresca and reportedly made indirect criticism of the current tactical approach.
The 25-year-old midfielder will miss Chelsea's FA Cup quarter-final against Port Vale and the upcoming Premier League clash with Manchester City as the club moves to prevent fallout from his comments.