New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has made it clear that he wants midfielder Enzo Fernández to remain at the club.
Alonso spoke during his first press conference at Stamford Bridge on Monday after officially taking charge of the Blues.
The Argentina international has been linked with a move away from Chelsea in recent weeks, with reports suggesting interest from Real Madrid. However, the Spanish giants have denied trying to sign him.
When asked if he wanted Fernandez to stay, Alonso gave a simple answer.
“Yes,” he said.
“We have spoken. But, as you can understand, what we said will remain private.”
The 25-year-old midfielder is currently away with Argentina and is preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final against England.
Alonso also confirmed that striker Nicolas Jackson will return to the squad after Bayern Munich decided not to make his loan move permanent.
“Nico Jackson is joining the tour in Asia and we are looking forward to him working with us,” Alonso said.
The Chelsea boss also revealed that winger Alejandro Garnacho is not training with the first team because he is looking for a move away from the club. Italian side Roma are among the clubs interested in signing him.
Alonso admitted Chelsea’s failure to qualify for European competition has changed some plans but insisted it will not affect the club’s main objectives for the new season.
He said he is working closely with the sporting directors to strengthen the squad in the right positions before the transfer window closes.
Describing his appointment as a “privilege and honour”, Alonso said he is excited by the opportunity to lead one of England’s biggest clubs.
“The excitement is the club, the squad and the opportunity to build something successful here,” he said.
“We want to build a competitive mentality, win games and enjoy doing it.”
Alonso added that returning Chelsea to European football is one of his main targets.
“For sure, that’s a goal,” he said. “But to achieve it, we have to do many things right. We are ambitious, and at Chelsea you need the hunger to succeed.”
The 44-year-old has already begun working with his squad at Cobham as he prepares the Blues for the new Premier League season.
