Argentina star Enzo Fernandez has disclosed that Chelsea’s new coach, Enzo Maresca, has prevented him from participating in the 2024 Paris Olympics. The 23-year-old midfielder said that former Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino had approved him to play at the Summer games. Meanwhile, after Maresca’s appointment, Fernandez was informed by the club that he won’t be allowed to join the Olympic squad.
Fernandez, who is currently competing in the 2024 Copa America, expressed dismay over Chelsea’s decision. The youngster emphasized his disappointment, particularly getting approval from Pochettino initially. Notably, this highlights his enthusiasm to represent the country at the Summer games.
“I did everything possible. Mauricio was at Chelsea before, he had given me the OK. Then, there was a change of coach and the club changed its position. I tried, I kept talking, I did everything possible to be there, but it wasn’t possible,” Fernandez said.
Enzo Fernandez apologizes to Argentina coach as Chelsea ‘block him from Olympics’
Enzo Fernandez issued an apology to Argentina coach Javier Mascherano as Chelsea blocked him from competing in the Olympics. Since the Olympics fall outside FIFA, clubs are not obligated to release their players.
“I did everything possible to be there, I apologize to Mascherano,” said the 23-year-old.
Also read: Spain announces men’s football training squad for Paris Olympics, Barcelona’s Pau Cubarsi selected
