Xabi Alonso explains Enzo Fernandez omission as Chelsea skip Luton

Enzo Fernandez was omitted from Chelsea’s squad for tonight’s Carabao Cup clash against Luton Town, a decision confirmed by manager Xabi Alonso. The Argentina international, a former Benfica star, sees his future at Stamford Bridge in doubt as Manchester City are expected to bid before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.

Deadline set and missed

Ahead of the Thursday night kick‑off, Xabi Alonso was questioned by about Fernandez’s omission. ‘We assessed situations, individual and collective and we have decided he is not in the squad for today,’ the manager said. He added that the club needs to be prepared for everything and will focus on the game.

Chelsea had set a deadline of last Friday for their Premier League rivals to complete a transfer for the former Benfica midfielder. Manchester City declined to make their move before that date, leaving the Blues without a buyer as of that deadline.

The Blues are reported to be asking for £120 million for the 25‑year‑old, reflecting his market value after a season in England.

The news of his exclusion was accompanied by a photograph captioned ‘Picture: Alamy Live News’, showing Fernandez on the bench as the squad list was announced.

Manchester City, also competing in the Premier League, are expected to launch a bid before the transfer deadline on Tuesday, a development that could determine Fernandez’s future at Stamford Bridge.

Luton Town, the Carabao Cup opponents, will face a Chelsea side missing the Argentine midfielder, a factor that could influence the match dynamics.

With the transfer window closing on Tuesday, any agreement would need to be finalized before then, leaving the Argentine international’s status in limbo.