What's Happening?
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced its plans for the upcoming November international break, which is favorable for Chelsea and their midfielder, Enzo Fernandez. Since the start of the season,
Fernandez has not faced significant disruptions due to international duties. He was involved in a friendly match against Venezuela in the USA, marking his only national team appearance since mid-June. Fernandez missed the September international break due to a suspension from a red card received in a World Cup qualifier against Colombia. In October, he was called up for Argentina's tour in the USA but withdrew after a minor knee injury. The AFA's recent announcement indicates that the Argentina national team will travel to Spain for a training camp and play only one friendly match against Angola on November 14. This schedule allows Fernandez to maintain his involvement with Chelsea, having participated in 11 of the 12 games this season.
Why It's Important?
The AFA's decision to limit Argentina's international engagements during the November break is significant for Chelsea, as it minimizes the risk of fatigue and injury for Enzo Fernandez. This is crucial for Chelsea's performance in both domestic and international competitions. Fernandez's availability is vital for Chelsea, especially with upcoming matches against Burnley and Barcelona. The reduced international schedule allows him to focus on club commitments, potentially enhancing Chelsea's midfield strength. This development also highlights the balancing act national teams must perform to accommodate club schedules, ensuring players are not overburdened.
What's Next?
Following the November international break, Chelsea is set to face Burnley on November 22 and Barcelona on November 25 in a Champions League match. The limited international duty for Fernandez means he is likely to be well-rested and available for these critical fixtures. Chelsea will be keen to capitalize on his presence to maintain their competitive edge in both the Premier League and the Champions League. The club will monitor Fernandez's fitness closely, especially given his recent knee injury, to ensure he remains in peak condition for the demanding schedule ahead.
