Enzo Fernandez ignores elephant in the room with statement after World Cup red card

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has spoken out for the first time after his red card in the 2026 World Cup final

Enzo Fernandez has broken his silence after being sent off during Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain. The Chelsea midfielder picked up two yellow cards to be handed his marching orders when the score was still goalless.

Fernandez picked up his first caution for dissent during the second period before being dismissed for a dangerous tackle on Spain’s Pau Cubarsi. The Blues ace, who has previously spoken about his desire to join Real Madrid, left his team at a one-man disadvantage when they were already defending with their backs to the wall.

Lionel Scaloni’s side were unable to hold out for the duration of extra time as Ferran Torres scored the crucial goal to hand Spain World Cup glory. The result sparked fiery scenes as Argentina stars threw punches at their opponents in the aftermath.

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Fernandez spoke highly of his side following their campaign and alluded to his pride at the manner of some of their results. Argentina battled through extra time against Cape Verde and came from behind against Egypt and England on their way to the final, with the former Benfica star being instrumental in those wins.

The 25-year-old, whose Chelsea future remains uncertain after the saga with Real Madrid earlier this summer, stopped short of apologising for his senseless red card but expressed thanks for his nation’s ‘unconditional support’.

“As time goes by, you realise there is something much bigger than just a result,” he said. “For years, this group has represented us in the best possible way.

“It teaches that competing isn’t just about winning; it’s about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up. It has been a privilege to be part of a group that always stepped up, competed at the highest level, and defended these colours with pride, humility, and commitment.

“I want to thank all the Argentine fans. Thank you for always being there, for supporting us in every match, for the affection, for the unconditional support, and for making us feel at home anywhere in the world.

“Wearing my country’s jersey is the greatest honour of my career, and I will continue to give my all every time I get to defend it.”

Tottenham star Cristian Romero, who has been linked with a move to Chelsea, offered a similar sentiment. “We dreamed of bringing the trophy home again, but it didn’t happen. But if there is one thing we will never lack, it is total commitment,” he wrote.

“We gave it our all. We finished second, but we never stopped representing Argentina with the pride and dedication this jersey deserves. I am so proud and fortunate to be part of this family.

“I’m sorry we couldn’t give you the joy we wanted so badly to share. We played for you—for every Argentine cheering us on from every corner of the globe. We felt that love every single day.

“Today, we have to pick ourselves up. Start over. Work harder, believe more, and prepare to get this jersey back to the very top—right where we’ve placed it these past few years.

“Because finals aren’t handed to you; you earn them by getting there. And this group—and whoever comes next—will keep fighting, united, with the same hope and passion as always.

“Thank you for being there. Thank you for believing. We will rise again. Because that’s what Argentina is all about. Always together.”