Alonso Urges Chelsea to ‘Move Forward’ After Fernandez’s Exit

Xabi Alonso wants Chelsea to leave the Enzo Fernandez transfer behind. The midfielder’s move to Manchester City for a British record-equalling £125 million deal ended a prolonged period of uncertainty before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.

Chelsea had hoped to replace Fernandez with Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, but that deal collapsed after Monaco failed to submit a deal sheet before the window closed. Alonso declined to discuss the failed move in detail, saying he was satisfied with the squad’s depth and competition for places.

“We take all the decisions together,” Alonso told reporters before Sunday’s trip to Arsenal. He said the club’s decisions had been made with the team and squad in mind, while emphasizing the need to build a strong spirit around the group.

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We take all the decisions together.

“What he has done for the club, it has been great, and we are thankful, but now it is time to move forward,” Alonso said of Fernandez. He added that Chelsea had enough quality and experienced personalities across the squad to continue their work.

Chelsea have undergone major changes during the summer. Alonso said he was happy with the transfer window and would make a late decision on Moises Caicedo, who left the field late in the match against Brighton. Chelsea began the new campaign with two wins and will seek to preserve that record against the reigning Premier League champions.

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What he has done for the club, it has been great, and we are thankful, but now it is time to move forward.