Chelsea ace Enzo Fernandez has divulged he has been fighting conjunctivitis over the past few games. His ailment accounts for the swelling seen around his eye on Chelsea’s 1-0 win over Manchester United on Friday evening. His pain notwithstanding, the Argentine midfielder played a pivotal role in gaining three important points.
Fernandez’s eye was visibly discolored and puffy during the match. The problem raised concerns among fans and commentators with many speculating as to whether he had an injury or not. It has, however, come out that the midfielder has been experiencing conjunctivitis for more than a week. Fernandez, according to a report, has been carrying the infection over Chelsea’s past two Premier League matches. In spite of the discomfort, he continued to play. The midfielder was also part of Chelsea’s last match against Newcastle, where the problem initially became evident.
Conjunctivitis, or more commonly “pink eye,” results in redness, soreness, and swelling. Vision may be impaired temporarily in some instances. It is not something professional footballers normally encounter on the pitch. However, Fernandez, showing great professionalism and dedication, refused to take a seat. He chose to plow on and drive his team as they go for a Champions League spot. His commitment has not escaped the notice of fans and teammates either.
Enzo Fernandez Speaks Out
Following their victory over Manchester United, Fernandez spoke about his condition. He wrote a message on Instagram saying:
(It was the) home final against this bunch that will leave everything on the pitch until the final whistle, two finals remaining. Thanks to the fans for all their support throughout the season. First game I’ve played with one eye.
The humorous post provided the audience with an insight into his fighting spirit. It also insured that the swollen eye was not due to contact or injury in the course of the game. Rather, it was a pre-existing condition he had been living with prior to the match.
Enzo Fernandez signed for Chelsea in January 2023 for a then-club-record transfer fee. He came from Benfica following a successful World Cup with Argentina. He has since established himself as a regular starter and a key player in the midfield. His performance has kept on getting better, especially in the second half of this season. Manager Enzo Maresca has tasked him with more duties. He has become a leader on and off the pitch.
Against Manchester United, he maintained possession, intercepted play, and kept Chelsea going. His presence in midfield freed up other players. He did not back away from tackles or physical battles despite his eye condition.
One Game to Go for Chelsea
Chelsea next play Nottingham Forest in their last Premier League match of the season. A victory guarantees a Champions League qualification for the 2025-26 season. Fernandez is likely to feature again, as long as his condition improves. The club doctors are closely watching him, hoping that he recovers fully before the next match.
With barely a week to the next game, there is hope that he will come good. His commitment to the cause has been an inspiration to the Chelsea supporters, and they are still hoping that he can lead the team back into Europe. Enzo Fernandez has shown sheer professionalism over the last few weeks. Playing through conjunctivitis is hardly ideal, especially at this level. His unselfishness in putting the team first says a lot about his character.
Chelsea are nearly back in the Champions League. Even at less than 100%, having Fernandez in the team means that their chances are high. He has again shown that he is a fighter, and Chelsea will be counting heavily on him in the final tie.
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