EPL: Fernandez credits Rosenior for Chelsea attacking freedom

Enzo Fernandez has praised Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior for instilling greater attacking freedom in the squad following his appointment, saying the players now feel more confident expressing themselves in the final third.

Chelsea sit fifth in the Premier League, one point behind fourth-placed Manchester United, after a run of improved performances since Rosenior replaced Enzo Maresca.

The Blues scored three goals in three consecutive matches across domestic and European competitions before their midweek Carabao Cup semi-final exit to Arsenal.

Continuity with subtle tactical shift

Fernandez acknowledged Maresca’s influence while highlighting Rosenior’s tweaks, stressing that the transition has been evolutionary rather than disruptive.

“Maresca gave us an identity, he was good for all of us,” Fernandez told ESPN Argentina. “With the arrival of the new coach there were changes, he gave each of us a lot of confidence and we’re doing well.

“Things haven’t changed much, he just works differently and we feel very good about achieving results and raising the level of play.”

The Argentine midfielder added that Rosenior’s approach allows players more autonomy in advanced areas.

“The game plan didn’t change that much. Liam gives us a bit more freedom in the final third… he gives us the freedom to express ourselves.”

Player contentment amid transfer noise

Despite speculation linking him with Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, Fernandez played down talk of a move away from Stamford Bridge, insisting he is settled in west London.

“On a personal level, I feel great, I’m happy,” he said. “I felt I grew both athletically and personally… feeling good off the field has an impact on the pitch.”

Rosenior, for his part, dismissed concerns over Fernandez’s future. “It means nothing to me,” he said. “When you’re a world-class player, there’s always going to be speculation… He’s a Chelsea player. He’s very important to me.”

Momentum and targets ahead

Fernandez, who joined Chelsea in January 2023, has already lifted the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup with the club and is targeting Champions League success.

He currently has 11 goals and four assists in 36 appearances this season.

Chelsea face Wolves this weekend as they continue their push for a top-four finish, with victory potentially lifting them into the Champions League qualification places.