Enzo Fernandez Shines Ahead of Emotional Benfica Reunion at Club World Cup
Match Preview: Fernandez Faces Former Club in Career-Best Form
🔥 14 G/A in 2025 – Chelsea’s creative leader outproducing Palmer & Neto
⚽ 8 goals this season – Including crucial strikes in UCL qualification & Conference League final
🎯 2 assists vs. Esperance – Set up Delap’s debut goal ahead of Benfica clash
Why Fernandez is Chelsea’s Engine
- Tactical Freedom:
- Maresca’s advanced role unlocks his playmaking (career-high attacking numbers)
- “I want more goals/assists next season” – Fernandez
- Big-Game Pedigree:
- Scored in Conference League final comeback vs. Betis
- Delivered in UCL qualification push
- Leadership Emerges:
- Now a dressing room pillar despite being just 24
- Mentoring new signings like Delap
Benfica Return Storylines
📅 Saturday, Club World Cup Last 16 (Charlotte)
💔 29 apps for Benfica before £107m Chelsea move
⚠️ Redemption Arc: Overcame hernia issues & early struggles
Manager’s Trust
Maresca: “He’s been very, very good. The plan is for him to stay.”
- Shuts down transfer rumors
- Projects “even better” 2024/25 campaign
