Malo Gusto is now a fresh addition to the Chelsea injury list for the Middlesbrough tie. (Photo by CLEMENT MAHOUDEAU/AFP via Getty Images)
Mauricio Pochettino has lauded Enzo Fernandez and Ian Maatsen following their 2-0 win over Fulham in a pre-season game at FedEx Field Stadium as they lifted the Premier League Summer Series trophy.
Fernandez, who joined in the January transfer window, has been brilliant and will be a key part of Pochettino’s rebuilding phase for next season, while Maatsen, who returned to Chelsea after a season-long loan spell at Burnley, might remain at the Blues. It would appear that the duo are getting along fine ahead of the 2023-24 season.
Moreover, throughout the pre-season games, Maatsen was deployed out of position as he operated on the right and left wings and impressed Pochettino. This versatility will aid his cause for a greater role next season.
Although Fernandez continued to perform at the top of his game as usual, he will undoubtedly require a reliable midfield partner to support him next season. Speaking after the game, Pochettino praised the former Benfica midfielder’s performance, (h/t Metro), and commented on his outing against Fulham:
‘’Always it is a pleasure [to have Fernandez]. He is very humble, he is a fighter, and he is a fantastic player. He is a world champion with Argentina, and I am so proud.”
Meanwhile, talking about Maatsen and his future position at Chelsea if he remains there next season, the Argentine manager said:
‘‘He has the capacity to compete for different places on the pitch. ‘ He is a player you can use in different positions. I am so happy because his performance didn’t change.”
One of the best midfielders in world football, Fernandez made an immediate impression for Argentina at the World Cup, and at the young age of 22, which is absolutely remarkable. Since joining Chelsea, he has proven to be an intriguing midfielder for the team and has also demonstrated the characteristics of leadership. He may eventually be named captain in the long run. It would be foolish to dismiss his chances as a leader of men.
Maatsen’s adaptability on the wings has been commendable, and if Pochettino decides against sending him on loan, he might stay at Chelsea. Nothing is ever certain, but given that the previous Southampton manager has heaped praise on him, it seems likely that he will stay. Given his pre-season performances, there is plenty of reasons for us to retain him.
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