Chelsea’s New Vice-Captain Amid Past Controversy | OneFootball

Enzo Fernandez Steps into Chelsea Vice-Captaincy Amid Controversy

Enzo Fernandez’s New Role at Chelsea

In a move that underscores his rising stature within the team, Enzo Fernandez is set to become one of Chelsea’s vice-captains. This appointment comes despite recent controversies involving the Argentine midfielder during the Copa America celebrations. Fernandez faced criticism for his participation in a song that was both racist and homophobic, sparking considerable backlash within the diverse Chelsea squad.

Controversy and Conciliation

The incident led to strained relations, particularly with French teammates, compelling Fernandez to issue an apology upon rejoining the team for their pre-season tour in the US. Despite the ongoing FIFA investigation, Chelsea’s management, including coach Enzo Maresca, considers the issue resolved among the players. Maresca’s endorsement of Fernandez as a respected member of the team was symbolically affirmed when captain Reece James handed him the armband during a pre-season match against Real Madrid—a game that ended in a 2-1 defeat for Chelsea.

Photo: IMAGO

Leadership and Team Dynamics

Maresca’s confidence in Fernandez extends beyond the pitch. By integrating him into the leadership group, Maresca signals his belief in Fernandez’s ability to embody the values and spirit of the team. “He’s one of the important players,” Maresca noted, emphasising the significance of the gesture from Reece James during the captaincy handover. This step is seen as a testament to Fernandez’s respect and standing within the squad, reflecting a broader strategy to foster a cohesive team environment.

Tactical Shifts and Future Challenges

On the tactical front, Chelsea’s pre-season has exposed some defensive frailties, particularly against high-calibre teams like Real Madrid. Maresca is actively working to shift the defensive strategies that were prevalent under Mauricio Pochettino, advocating for a deeper defensive line to mitigate the risks observed in recent outings. Chelsea concluded their US tour with a concerning tally of 12 goals conceded across five matches, prompting a rethink of their defensive tactics as the new season looms.