Enzo Fernández has explained why he chose Manchester City after ending his turbulent spell at Chelsea, pointing to City’s winning mentality, squad quality and ambition as major reasons behind his decision.
The Argentina international completed his move to Manchester City from Chelsea for a British-record-equalling £125 million deal, bringing an end to weeks of uncertainty over his future. The transfer also reunites Fernández with Enzo Maresca, the manager he previously worked with at Chelsea.
Fernández said he could not wait to begin the next chapter of his career and help City compete for more major trophies.
“I could not be happier to be here, and I am ready for the challenge of helping City continue winning trophies. This is a club built for success,” Fernández said, according to BBC Sport.
Why Fernández Chose Manchester City
For Fernández, City’s established culture of competing for trophies was a major attraction.
The midfielder also highlighted the strength of the squad and said he wants to use the opportunity to learn from his new teammates.
“If you look across the squad, City have quality in every area. I want to learn from my new teammates and become a better player,” he said.
That desire to develop was also central to City’s decision to pursue him. The club described Fernández as a technically gifted and hardworking midfielder capable of operating in different tactical systems.
Fernández Reunites With Enzo Maresca
The move gives Fernández another opportunity to work with Maresca, who left Chelsea during the 2025-26 season before taking over from Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
Maresca already knows Fernández’s qualities from their time together at Stamford Bridge, and the midfielder’s arrival gives the City manager another experienced option in the middle of the pitch.
Maresca has made winning a central part of his message since taking charge at City, saying the priority is to win matches and build on the club’s established identity.
His Chelsea Departure Was Far From Smooth
Fernández’s departure came after a difficult final period at Chelsea.
The midfielder had faced criticism from sections of the Stamford Bridge support and had been linked with a move away from the club for much of the summer. Chelsea eventually agreed to City’s £125 million offer, making Fernández one of the most expensive players in football history.
His exit was particularly notable because Fernández had previously been one of Chelsea’s most expensive signings after joining from Benfica in January 2023.
Despite the tension surrounding his final months, Fernández did not leave with harsh words for his former club.
“Chelsea Will Always Be in My Heart”
In a farewell message to Chelsea supporters, Fernández made it clear that his decision to leave did not erase his affection for the club.
“Chelsea will always be in my heart,” he said in an open letter.
Fernández also reflected on the highs and lows of his time in west London, acknowledging that the period had included difficult moments as well as major achievements.
His comments suggest that the decision to join City was less about dismissing Chelsea and more about seeking a fresh challenge at a club he believes is equipped to compete consistently for the biggest trophies.
Fernández Promises to Give Everything for City
The 25-year-old midfielder has now turned his attention fully towards his new club.
Fernández has promised to maintain the same level of commitment he showed during his time at Chelsea as he begins life at the Etihad Stadium.
“I give absolutely everything and I can promise Manchester City that I will continue now I’m here,” he said.
The transfer represents another major step in a career that has already taken Fernández from River Plate to Benfica, Chelsea and now Manchester City.
He also becomes the first player to move for more than £100 million on two separate occasions, underlining the extraordinary financial scale of his career so far.
What Fernández Must Deliver at Manchester City
The pressure will now shift from the transfer fee to performances.
Manchester City are expecting Fernández to bring energy, creativity, technical quality and experience to a midfield undergoing significant change.
For Fernández, the challenge is straightforward: justify City’s enormous investment and help Maresca’s side compete for silverware.
His first few months at the Etihad will also be closely watched because of the circumstances surrounding his Chelsea departure.
Fernández has made his position clear. He respects Chelsea, but he believes Manchester City offers the right environment for the next stage of his career.
Now, he has to prove it on the pitch.
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