Chelsea supporters have once again voiced their frustrations, this time directing their anger at Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernández, following a disappointing 0–0 draw against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. Fernández, once hailed as a marquee signing and a player capable of transforming Chelsea’s midfield, found himself at the center of criticism after delivering what many fans described as a flat and uninspiring performance. For a player valued at nearly £95 million, expectations are naturally sky-high, and supporters felt he failed to rise to the occasion when the team most needed his creativity and leadership.
The encounter itself was tense but uninspiring. Chelsea enjoyed the majority of possession and dictated the flow of the game territorially, yet they were unable to convert their dominance into meaningful chances. For many fans, this fixture was meant to be a stepping stone toward reestablishing Chelsea’s authority in the league. Instead, the stalemate highlighted ongoing problems—chief among them, the lack of cutting edge and incisiveness in midfield. Supporters argued that Fernández, seen as the heartbeat of the team, failed to stamp his authority on the match.
What particularly frustrated the fanbase was Fernández’s inability to impose himself during critical phases. He misplaced several passes, failed to control the tempo, and offered little in terms of progressive playmaking. The Argentine was accused of going missing in key moments, with some fans even questioning his attitude and commitment after interpreting his body language as lacking urgency and desire. For a club in transition but desperate to return to the top of English football, such performances were described as unacceptable.
Chelsea’s wider attacking struggles only intensified the criticism. The forward line looked starved of service, and fans pointed directly at the midfield as the root of the problem. Fernández’s inability to link play and unlock Palace’s stubborn defense was seen as symbolic of Chelsea’s broader inconsistency since his arrival. While his flashes of brilliance in previous matches have offered hope, supporters are increasingly frustrated by his lack of consistency, especially given the immense financial investment made in securing his services from Benfica.
The draw leaves Chelsea in a difficult position, dropping valuable points that could prove costly later in the season. Manager Enzo Maresca defended the squad’s overall effort but was unable to shield Fernández from the wave of criticism directed at him. For many fans, it is no longer enough to witness moments of promise from high-profile players—they demand consistent impact and leadership. As the season progresses, the pressure on Fernández will only intensify, with every performance likely to be judged under a microscope.
In the end, Chelsea’s failure to secure victory at Selhurst Park was more than just two points dropped; it was a sobering reminder that some of their biggest names still have much to prove. For Fernández, the match may be remembered not for his contributions but for the questions it raised about his ability to shoulder the responsibility expected of him at Stamford Bridge.
