"That’s why he wasn't in the team" - Benfica coach on decision to drop Enzo Fernandez and when Chelsea target will be back in training

Benfica manager Roger Schmidt has said that he dropped Enzo Fernandez from his matchday squad due to the player's actions amid speculation over a move to Chelsea.

The German coach says that Fernandez can now concentrate on the Primeira Liga side. Schmidt said (via Fabrizio Romano):

“It's clear what Enzo Fernández did wasn't right, that’s why he wasn't in the team. I’m happy to announce from tomorrow I'll see Enzo in training. He is our player; we need him. … now Enzo can focus on Benfica and football again”.

Fernandez has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge after the Blues seemingly made Benfica aware that they would pay the player's €120 million release clause. However, Romano reported that Chelsea only offered €85 million for the midfielder.

The 21-year-old flew to Argentina last week following the nation's 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph without Benfica's permission. Moreover, Fernandez allegedly missed a full training day due to being in his native country. Schmidt consequently dropped the player for tonight's (January 6) 1-0 win over Portimonense.

He shone at the World Cup with La Abiceleste, scoring one goal and providing an assist. The former River Plate midfielder was named the tournament's Best Young Player.

Benfica have been angered by Chelsea's attempts to sign Fernandez, believing that they have attempted to turn the player's head. Schmidt said on the same:

“There is a club that wants Enzo. They know we don't want to sell; they try to have the player on their side. ... It's a lack of respect and unacceptable, for them to drive the player 'crazy', they say they pay the clause and then want to negotiate?”

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Chelsea close to extending N'Golo Kante contract

The Blues' fan-favourite looks set to stay.

Chelsea's pursuit of Fernandez may be in jeopardy, but they appear to be on the brink of sealing a new contract extension with N' Golo Kante. The French midfielder's deal expires at the end of the season. However, talks have moved positively to extend his stay at Stamford Bridge.

Foot Mercato reports that the Blues have made a contract offer to Kante that would keep him tied to the Premier League club till 2026. The ball is now in the midfielder's court regarding his continued stay in west London.

Kante arrived at the Bridge from Leicester City in 2016 and has been a mainstay in the side since then. He has made 262 appearances, scoring 13 goals and providing 15 assists. This season has been difficult for the Frenchman, as he has struggled with a hamstring injury, featuring just twice across competitions.

However, with proven experience and being renowned as one of the best midfielders in Premier League history, Kante looks set to stay at Chelsea. He will likely be part of Graham Potter's revolution that's in dire need of a turnaround.