EPL: Chelsea have shown they can do without you – Ikpeba slams Enzo Fernandez

Former Nigeria international, Victor Ikpeba has criticized Chelsea midfielder, Enzo Fernández following his comments expressing a desire to live in Madrid.

Fernández recently stated his interest in moving to Real Madrid, drawing parallels between the Spanish city and Buenos Aires.

These remarks were largely seen as a subtle flirtation with Real Madrid, even though the Argentine is under contract at Stamford Bridge until June 30, 2032.

However, his agent has since sought to clarify the matter, asserting that the midfielder’s comments were misinterpreted.

In response, Chelsea imposed a two-match ban on the Argentina international.

This penalty will prevent him from participating in the FA Cup match against Port Vale and will also exclude him from the forthcoming Premier League game against Manchester City.

As tensions rise between Fernández and Chelsea, former African Footballer of the Year Victor Ikpeba has condemned the midfielder’s statements, indicating they were ill-considered and could harm the club.

“Enzo Fernández could have exercised more discretion by refraining from making such comments. The statement is detrimental to the club, but it serves as a reminder to other players that they can manage without him,” Ikpeba remarked on SuperSport’s Monday Night Football.

“The manager has demonstrated that they can function without Enzo, and if he wishes to join Real Madrid in the future, he is free to do so. It would be wise for him to remain silent and focus on his career until the season concludes.

“He has a lengthy contract, so ultimately, he does not dictate the terms. Chelsea holds his rights.

“When Maresca was dismissed, how many of these players publicly supported the decision to not sack this manager? Everyone remained silent.”

Acquired from Benfica in January 2023, Fernández has recorded 28 goals and 29 assists in 161 appearances for Chelsea.