Manchester City completed one of the summer’s biggest transfers by signing Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea for a joint-British-record £125 million.
The 25-year-old Argentina international signed a five-year contract at the Etihad Stadium after spending three-and-a-half years with Chelsea.
Fernandez arrived following an impressive individual campaign in which he registered 15 goals and seven assists across all competitions.
Meanwhile, City had already reshaped their midfield after the departures of Rodri, Bernardo Silva and Tijjani Reijnders.
Elliot Anderson and Ayyoub Bouaddi were also added before Fernandez completed his deadline-day switch from Stamford Bridge.
A significant factor behind Fernandez’s transfer was the opportunity to reunite with Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca.
Fernandez previously worked under Maresca at Chelsea before the Italian left and subsequently replaced Pep Guardiola at City.
Speaking to Manchester City’s official website, Fernandez expressed his delight at their reunion and praised Maresca’s influence on the transfer. Enzo Fernandez said:
“He is a top manager, honestly. I had him at my previous club.”
He also reflected positively on their Chelsea spell, adding:
“They were incredible moments. I learned so much with him.”
Furthermore, Fernandez revealed that Maresca played an important role in helping bring him to the Etihad Stadium. The midfielder explained:
“I’m also grateful because he was very important in bringing me here.”
His comments could be interpreted as a subtle dig at Chelsea, particularly given Fernandez’s previous frustration over Maresca’s departure.
Earlier this year, Fernandez admitted he could not understand why Chelsea had parted company with the Italian midway through the season.
He also said Maresca’s exit ‘hurt us a lot because we had an identity’, highlighting how highly he valued the manager’s work.
Fernandez further credited Maresca with providing structure and a clear playing identity during their time together in London.
Chelsea have since appointed Xabi Alonso, while Fernandez has now followed Maresca to Manchester City.
His latest comments underline the strength of their relationship and suggest Maresca’s presence was central to his decision to move.
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