Enzo Fernandez Misses out on Remaining 2023/24 Campaign
After Undergoing Season-Ending Surgery
The
23-year-old Chelsea midfielder has undergone a groin surgery which will see him
off the pitch for the remaining season. This
decision comes as Fernandez has been experiencing persistent pain, prompting
the need for medical intervention.
The
Argentine now faces a challenge of speedy recovery to be fit in time for this
summer’s Copa America which kick starts on June 20 with Argentina facing it off
with Ecuador on June 9 and Guatemala five days later as warm-up matches ahead
of the tournament.
Fernandez
missed out on Chelsea’s 6-0 win against Everton on April 15, but returned to
start in the FA Cup semifinal loss against Manchester City five days later.
Since
joining Chelsea from Benfica for a staggering £106 million ($134m) in January
the previous year, Fernandez has faced challenges in fulfilling his potential
due to injury setbacks and subsequent underperformance. In a statement to the
official Chelsea website, Fernandez candidly addressed his ongoing struggles
with fitness, expressing his determination to return to the level of
performance he showcased during the 2022 World Cup.
A
statement from Chelsea on Thursday read; “Enzo Fernandez has today undergone
successful surgery on a groin issue and will now begin a period of
rehabilitation, sidelining him for the remainder of Chelsea’s 2023-24 season.
The 23-year-old midfielder will work with the club’s medical department on his
rehabilitation at Cobham.”
Meanwhile,
Chelsea finds themselves in a precarious position in the Premier League
standings, with their hopes of securing a European spot dwindling after recent
losses.
The Blues
recently endured a humbling 5-0 loss to Arsenal in the Premier League.
Fernandez's absence will undoubtedly be felt as Chelsea navigates the remainder
of the season without one of their key midfield assets.
Credit: Opoku Bernard Isaac