Enzo Fernandez Injury Update: Chelsea Star Returns to Training Ahead of Ajax Clash

Enzo Fernandez has handed Chelsea a major boost ahead of their Champions League meeting with Ajax. The Argentine midfielder was back in full training with the squad at Cobham on Tuesday, just days after missing the 3-0 Premier League win over Nottingham Forest due to a minor knee issue.

Fernandez, who left Argentina’s national camp early because of inflammation in his knee, was declared fit enough to train again and could feature on Wednesday night. Head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed that the 24-year-old completed Monday’s session and would be assessed before the European fixture.

Fernandez Nearing Return After Knee Inflammation

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca revealed that Fernandez participated in team training earlier this week and appeared in good condition. Speaking to reporters, Maresca said, “Enzo took part in the session yesterday. We have one more session this afternoon. We will see what we decide with him tomorrow. But it was not something we had to be worried about—it was just to protect Enzo.”

Fernandez’s return comes at a crucial time for Chelsea, who are pushing to maintain their strong start in Europe. The midfielder has been a consistent presence since the beginning of the season, contributing both creatively and defensively. His leadership in the center of the pitch has been instrumental to Maresca’s high-possession style of play.

After joining the Blues from Benfica in January 2023, Fernandez quickly became one of the team’s most influential figures. His recent absence due to knee inflammation had raised concerns among fans, but Tuesday’s training appearance indicates that he may be ready to return to action against Ajax.

Chelsea Eye Momentum Ahead of Ajax Test

The Champions League group-stage fixture against Ajax will be a vital one for Chelsea as they aim to strengthen their position in the table. The Dutch side, known for their high-tempo attack, will test the Blues’ midfield depth, making Fernandez’s recovery all the more significant.

Should Fernandez feature, it would mark a swift return from a minor setback. Chelsea’s medical team has reportedly taken a cautious approach, ensuring that the player was fully rested and ready before returning to training. With Moisés Caicedo and Conor Gallagher also in contention, Maresca has several midfield combinations to consider.

Fans will be relieved to see Fernandez back so soon, especially given the club’s recent injury struggles in multiple departments. His availability could help Chelsea regain rhythm and maintain consistency as they juggle Premier League and European commitments.

Enzo Fernandez’s injury recovery offers Chelsea renewed confidence heading into their Champions League clash with Ajax. If he passes the final fitness checks, the Argentine star could make his return on Wednesday night—just in time to boost the Blues’ European ambitions.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was Enzo Fernandez’s injury?

Enzo Fernandez suffered knee inflammation that forced him to withdraw early from Argentina’s international camp.

Q2: Did Enzo Fernandez train before the Ajax match?

Yes, he trained with Chelsea’s first team on Monday and Tuesday at Cobham ahead of the Ajax game.

Q3: Will Enzo Fernandez play against Ajax?

He is in contention to feature, pending final assessment from the club’s medical staff after Tuesday’s training session.

Q4: What did Enzo Maresca say about Fernandez’s injury?

Maresca confirmed it was not a serious issue and that the club was simply being cautious to protect the midfielder.

Q5: When is Chelsea’s next Champions League match?

Chelsea face Ajax on Wednesday evening in a crucial group-stage fixture at Stamford Bridge.