Chelsea fans boo Enzo Fernandez in friendly win over Sociedad

Chelsea’s Argentinian midfielder #08 Enzo Fernandez in action during the pre-season friendly football match between Chelsea and Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge in London on August 15, 2026. (Photograph: Adrian DENNIS / AFP)
Enzo Fernandez was booed by sections of the Chelsea support after coming on as a substitute during the club’s 3-1 friendly victory over Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Some Chelsea fans made their feelings clear when Fernandez entered the game in the 62nd minute, replacing Reece James.

However, other supporters backed the 25-year-old midfielder, who reportedly informed the club in May of his desire to leave this summer.

Chelsea have reportedly placed a £120 million ($162 million) asking price on the Argentina international, although no bids have been received during the current transfer window.

Fernandez was part of Argentina’s World Cup-winning squad and remains an important figure for the national team. He scored in Argentina’s semi-final victory over England in July before being sent off during their final defeat by Spain.

Chelsea took the lead through record signing Morgan Rogers, who marked his first appearance at Stamford Bridge with a goal. Rogers followed up to score after Real Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Remiro saved Joao Pedro’s initial header.

Real Sociedad levelled through Jon Aramburu, but Chelsea regained control as Pedro scored twice to secure victory for new manager Xabi Alonso.

The Brazilian’s brace took his pre-season tally to eight goals and gave Alonso a winning finish to Chelsea’s preparations ahead of their Premier League opener against local rivals Fulham.

AFP