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Xabi Alonso has made his stance clear regarding Chelsea's contrasting positions on the futures of Enzo Fernández and Alejandro Garnacho, determined to retain one while appearing content to part ways with the other before the summer transfer window closes.
In his debut press conference as Chelsea manager—a title that notably sets him apart from all his predecessors over the past decade—Alonso offered insight into what may unfold. The Spaniard officially took up the role earlier this month and has had some time to settle in. Crucially, he is set to wield considerably more authority and influence than Enzo Maresca ever held.
Alonso Reveals Fernández Conversation
Regarding Fernández, who was notably suspended by Chelsea for two matches last season as a direct consequence of his conspicuous longing for a move to Real Madrid, Alonso stated: "We spoke, but what we discussed stays between us."
Yet while declining to share the specifics of their exchange, the former Liverpool midfielder did confirm, when pressed for clarification, that his preference is for Fernández to remain at the club.
Javier Pastore, acting as Fernández's representative, indicated at the beginning of July that "options to depart Chelsea" were being explored. Pastore, formerly of Paris Saint-Germain, also spoke glowingly about the prospect of life in Madrid. However, the statement may not have had its intended effect, as Real Madrid swiftly issued a public response firmly distancing themselves from any interest.
Without Real Madrid in the picture, it remains unclear what alternative routes Fernández might have to exit Chelsea. Paris Saint-Germain remain loosely linked, though there is no obvious opening for the Argentine in a midfield already featuring Vitinha, João Neves, Fabián Ruiz, and Warren Zaïre-Emery.
Even with Maresca now at the helm at Manchester City, the fleeting interest in Fernández reportedly attributed to that club last season is not believed to have persisted.
Transfer Interest in Garnacho Is Confirmed
Garnacho, by contrast, has been given the green light to leave.
The former Manchester United winger did little to silence his critics following a departure from Old Trafford last summer that was already tinged with controversy.
Garnacho was once considered the crown jewel of United's academy, lured away from Atlético Madrid at 16 and outshining senior teammates in the first team barely two years later. However, after already beginning to test the patience of supporters, the end seemed inevitable when he publicly took aim at Ruben Amorim's decision to leave him out of the 2025 Europa League final.
Chelsea took a chance on a player who had just turned 21, viewing him as a potentially transformative signing under the right guidance. But just one season in, the gamble appears to have fallen flat.
"We have spoken with the sporting directors, and there is interest from him, from other clubs, so let's see how it develops," Alonso said of the situation. "Hopefully it finishes in the best possible way for all parties," the manager added, a remark that spoke volumes.
Garnacho made just 17 starts across the Premier League and Champions League last season, with six of his eight goals coming in domestic cup competitions. Despite missing out on World Cup selection with Argentina, he has not returned to Chelsea for preseason, allowing his camp to pursue a transfer. Even Nicolas Jackson will be given the opportunity to prove himself under the new setup, highlighting just how dire Garnacho's situation at the club has become.
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Few clubs would be willing to pay Chelsea enough to recoup their outlay—approximately £40 million ($53 million)—given his inconsistent and underwhelming displays across two teams over two seasons.
Napoli have a track record of reviving talented players who have lost their way, while Turkish football consistently embraces such prospects. Saudi Arabia stands out as the most obvious destination, offering lucrative terms but removing Garnacho from the elite stage of European football.