Chelsea takes drastic Enzo Fernandez action as Liverpool handed yet another boost

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Chelsea continues to spiral out of control after Enzo Fernandez hinted at a potential exit this week, handing yet another boost to Liverpool in the hunt for Champions League qualification

Enzo Fernandez has been dropped by Chelsea after he hinted at an exit(Image: Getty Images)

Chelsea has handed Liverpool yet another boost in the race for Champions League qualification after placing a ban on Enzo Fernandez.

Blues boss Liam Rosenior has confirmed the midfielder has been dropped for the club’s next two games after he talked up the prospect of leaving Stamford Bridge. Fernandez will miss this weekend’s FA Cup tie against Port Vale, as well as the Premier League clash with Manchester City.

The 25-year-old has been linked with a move to Real Madrid in the summer, and he has done nothing to play down the rumors, having admitted this week that he wants to move to Spain.

“I’d like to live in Spain,” Fernandez said. “I really like Madrid; it reminds me of Buenos Aires. Players live where they want. I’d live in Madrid. I get by in English, but I’d be more comfortable in Spanish.”

As a result, Chelsea has now taken drastic measures by dropping Fernandez for the next two games - including next weekend’s crucial meeting with City - despite the Blues still being in a fight to qualify for next season’s Champions League.

Confirming the decision, Rosenior said on Friday: "I spoke with Enzo. As part of the football club, he won't be available for tomorrow or Manchester City.

Liam Rosenior confirmed Enzo Fernandez has been dropped by Chelsea(Image: Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

“It's disappointing to speak in that way. As a character and person, I have no bad words. But a line was crossed. We had to make a sanction."

Fernandez’s ban comes just days after Marc Cucurella hit out at Chelsea’s board for its transfer policy, as well as the decision to fire Enzo Maresca as manager earlier in the season.

It will be music to the ears of Liverpool though, with the Reds locked in a battle with the Blues to secure a spot at Europe’s top table next season.

Despite Liverpool’s own poor form, Chelsea has been unable to capitalize after losing three of its last four league games, leaving it a point behind Arne Slot’s side.

The Reds currently sit in fifth, which may prove to be enough for a Champions League spot if the Premier League receives an extra place again, and with signs that Chelsea is spiralling out of control, Liverpool should feel increasingly confident of finishing ahead of its rival.

The two sides are still to meet in what could be a decisive game on May 9, with Chelsea facing a tough run of fixtures before then as it faces City, Manchester United and Brighton this month.