Chelsea fans have been left reeling just hours before their FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16 clash against SL Benfica on June 28, 2025, at 9pm UK time (4pm ET) at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.
The club confirmed that star midfielder Enzo Fernandez, a pivotal figure in their recent resurgence, has been ruled out after sustaining a severe head injury during a training session on June 27, 2025.
The 22-year-old Argentine, who suffered heavy bleeding, was rushed to a local hospital for urgent treatment, casting a dark cloud over Chelsea’s preparations for the crucial knockout match.
Fernandez, set to make his 100th Chelsea appearance tonight, has been a linchpin in Enzo Maresca’s 4-2-3-1 system, leading the squad with eight assists and six goals in 2025, including two assists in the 3-0 win over Esperance Tunis.
His 54 chances created and 11 combined goals and assists since April make him the Premier League’s top midfielder for goal contributions, as noted in recent reports.
The injury occurred during a routine drill when Fernandez collided with a teammate, resulting in a deep laceration to the forehead and suspected concussion.
Chelsea’s medical staff, adhering to FIFA’s strict head injury protocols, immediately halted training, and Fernandez was transported to Carolinas Medical Center for scans and treatment.
The club’s statement described the incident as “serious but stable,” with Fernandez under observation for at least 24 hours. Maresca, visibly shaken, told reporters, “Enzo’s a massive part of our team, and we’re devastated. Our focus is on his recovery.”
The injury echoes past Chelsea controversies, like Thibaut Courtois’ 2014 head injury, where the club faced criticism for inadequate protocol adherence. This time, Chelsea acted swiftly, but Fernandez’s absence leaves a void, with Romeo Lavia or Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall likely to step in alongside Moises Caicedo.
Fans on social media are heartbroken, with one posting, “Losing Enzo before Benfica is a nightmare—get well soon!” Others fear the injury could disrupt Chelsea’s momentum, especially with Nicolas Jackson already suspended.
Benfica, led by Angel Di Maria and Vangelis Pavlidis, pose a formidable threat, and Chelsea’s rotated squad, potentially featuring Cole Palmer and Liam Delap, faces a stern test. As Fernandez begins his recovery, the Blues must rally to keep their Club World Cup dreams alive, with supporters anxiously awaiting updates on their star’s condition.
