Chelsea manager, Liam Rosenior has clarified the choice not to appoint Enzo Fernandez as captain during Reece James’ absence.
Chelsea experienced a 1-0 loss to Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday, with the Argentine donning the captain’s armband.
James is presently sidelined due to a hamstring injury he incurred in March 2026. The England international has been largely unavailable this season due to injuries.
In his absence, Fernandez, who was just returning from a two-match suspension following a controversial interview, temporarily wore the captain’s armband.
However, Rosenior stated that the team already has a designated group of players for leadership roles.
“The decision is that we have a leadership group. I believe that wearing the armband is a privilege for this club,” Rosenior remarked.
“Enzo performed like a captain today. I thought he was outstanding; he exerted himself fully, gave his all, played offensively, and was unfortunate not to score on a few occasions.
“I think that reflects his commitment to the team throughout this period. I am extremely pleased with his performance and with him, even though we did not achieve the result we felt we deserved or needed tonight.”
Rosenior also disclosed that Willian Estevao was in tears at halftime after sustaining a hamstring injury during Chelsea’s 1-0 loss to Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.
Estevao experienced discomfort in the first half of the match and required immediate assistance from Chelsea’s medical staff before being substituted by Alejandro Garnacho.
The Brazilian international has already missed six matches this season due to a hamstring problem, and the 18-year-old may now face another extended period on the sidelines.
“He was heartbroken; he was crying at halftime,” Rosenior commented following Chelsea’s defeat.
“I feel really sorry for him; it appears to be a hamstring issue. It happened at a moment when he was breaking through on goal and pulled his hamstring then.”
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