The absence of Fernandez from the starting lineups of recent games has captured the interest of many people. The topic has been addressed by Coach Maresca, who has shared his perspective on the function of the midfielder as well as his tactical approach, which can explain Fernandez’s limited appearances.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has made it clear that he still has full confidence in midfielder Enzo Fernandez, even after recently relegating the Argentine to the bench. Fernandez was left out of Chelsea’s starting XI in their 2-1 loss to Liverpool on October 20 and has since primarily featured in what’s been labeled the “cup squad” for Conference League and Carabao Cup matches.

In Chelsea’s recent 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in the cup, Maresca appeared visibly frustrated with Fernandez after a misplaced pass. However, when asked about it during a Friday press conference, Maresca downplayed the incident. “I showed frustration with Enzo? I show frustration with all of them,” he clarified. “Don’t focus only on Enzo. I still trust Enzo; there is no reason to lose confidence in him.”

Maresca emphasized that his decision to bench Fernandez in the Premier League is purely tactical. “I have 100% confidence in Enzo,” he asserted. “The reason he isn’t playing in the Premier League is simply due to different choices right now.”

He further explained that Chelsea’s lineup isn’t fixed, with no player deemed “indispensable.” He pointed out that if one player like Cole Palmer isn’t playing, then there’s Joao Felix, or if Nicolas Jackson sits out, Christo Nkunku is available. “The reason we rotate is because we believe all players are valuable,” Maresca said, adding that Fernandez’s benching doesn’t mean he won’t play in the near future.

Maresca highlighted the importance of balance in his selections, especially in midfield, where Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo provide physicality and strength. This approach, he noted, allows flexibility, like deploying Malo Gusto in a central role when needed. “When Enzo plays, we may struggle with physicality in the middle if he isn’t paired with one of Romeo or Moi,” he explained. “Every game needs a different plan, and soon, you might see Joao and Cole together in central roles with a striker.”

Maresca’s comments show he values squad depth and tactical adaptability, while also signaling that Fernandez remains integral to his plans, despite recent adjustments.