Fernandez joined Chelsea in January 2023 from Benfica for a British record fee of £107m. The World Cup winner made an immediate impact under then-manager Graham Potter but has faced criticism this season.
The 23-year-old midfielder revealed he had been playing through pain and required injections for six months. He recently underwent surgery for a hernia after Chelsea’s 5-0 defeat to Arsenal and will miss the rest of the season. Fernandez is recovering well and is training with a ball, aiming to be fit for the Copa America this summer.
Speaking about Pochettino, Fernandez noted the significant changes since the Argentine’s arrival last summer.
“When I arrived [in January 2023], it was quite a mess, there were many players,” Fernandez said in an interview with DSports.
“Mauricio gave order and an identity to the team. The work ethic is different. He changed everything, and the truth is it’s positive. The team is more serious and hard-working. That’s important for day-to-day, and when the weekend comes, you can see the difference.”
Fernandez’s comments highlight the improvements at Chelsea under Pochettino’s leadership. Despite some struggles this season, the club appears to be in a better place.
Fernandez has made 40 appearances and scored seven goals for Chelsea since his £106.8 million move from Benfica. The World Cup winner will not play a part in Chelsea’s last match of the season but he is looking to be fit for Argentina’s challenge at the Copa America next month.
Source:
DirecTVsports