Enzo Fernandez aims parting shot at Chelsea after finally getting Manchester City move

Enzo Fernandez took a parting shot at Chelsea by claiming he had always dreamed of being at a club as big as Manchester City.

The World Cup winner equalled the British transfer record when he joined City for £125m on deadline day.

The Argentina midfielder had moved to Chelsea in January 2023 for £107m and helped them win the Club World Cup.

But while Chelsea have won the Champions League twice as often as City, they did not compete for the Premier League title in Fernandez’s time at Stamford Bridge.

And the former Benfica player, who had pushed for a move, said: “I always dreamed of being at a club as big as City. I’m grateful for the opportunity. It’s a very emotional moment for me and my family, to take this step at 25 years old, in a football career that I always dreamed of. I’m so happy to be here, enjoying these first few hours I’ve had at the club.

“Manchester City have to win every trophy they compete for. In every competition we play in, we have to compete and win, because this club’s history demands that.”

Fernandez completes a £326m refit of the midfield, following the signings of Elliot Anderson for £116m and Ayyoub Bouaddi for £85m.

And he said: “The team City are building this year is incredible, and it makes me really happy that they are going in that direction.”

Fernandez has been reunited with his former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca and he thanked the Italian for persuading City to sign him.

Enzo Fernandez is pleased to reunite with Enzo Maresca (Adam Davy/PA Wire)

“We were both very eager for it to happen, because it wasn’t easy for me to be here today,” he added. “But I know he also made a big effort, speaking to the club, and I’m grateful that he did that. It was a long few days, but in the end I’m here and I’m very happy to be joining this club.”