“It’s because…” – Maresca clear on reason for Enzo Fernandez’s poor form | OneFootball

Chelsea are struggling with a few things right now, with injuries piling up and confidence low, but one of their big problems is the form of Enzo Fernandez.

The Argentine attacking midfielder had some good spells last year, but since the start of this season has been pretty dire. His lazy crossfield pass was picked off for the Lincoln City opener in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday, and that seemed to illustrate his current state of mind.

He’s still picking up the occasional goal and assist, but those are actually masking bad performances rather than demonstrating he’s doing well.

Maresca admits that fatigue is getting to key player

Enzo Fernandez celebrates his goal. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

It’s got to the point where manager Enzo Maresca was actually asked about Fernandez’s form in his press conference today:

“Enzo can play in different positions for us. He can play as a No.6 or he can play as an attacking midfielder,” Maresca explained initially dodging the issue of his bad form.

“We use him probably 90% of our games as an attacking midfielder. I think he’s very good in that position. The reason why he can have some good moments or bad moments is probably because the amount of games [he’s playing].

“I said many times that for any player, not just for Enzo, but for any players, it’s impossible to think that you can play 45 games or 64 games we played in that season all at the same level. It’s normal that you drop in some games, but we are very, very happy with Enzo.”

Andrey Santos to help relieve Enzo

Well, he says they’re happy with Enzo, but in the same breath acknowledges his form hasn’t been good enough.

As for fatigue – he’s had Andrey Santos on the bench ready to go all season. If he’s worried about fatigue, then stop playing the same players in every game.