Enzo Fernández fires up Argentina’s midfield ahead of World Cup semi-final clash with England

Enzo Fernández will start in Argentina’s midfield as the Albiceleste look to reach the World Cup final when they face England in the semi-final on Wednesday night in North America.

What’s at stake for Enzo Fernández

The 25-year-old midfielder is expected to be at the heart of Argentina’s attempts to grind out a result against a disciplined England side. Fernández moved to Chelsea for a club-record fee after the 2022 World Cup, which his country won, and has been a first-choice playmaker since. His ability to dictate tempo and carry the ball forward makes him a key piece for Lionel Scaloni’s side.

Why his Chelsea form matters

Fernández has been a polarising figure at Stamford Bridge. His technical gifts are undeniable, but his time in London has been overshadowed by off-field issues and a transfer saga that refuses to fade. The midfielder arrived as one of Europe’s hottest prospects, yet his Chelsea career has been marked by inconsistency and headlines that often eclipse his performances.

The off-field storm that won’t go away

In July 2024, Fernández and his Argentina teammates were caught up in a racism storm after posting a video of themselves singing a controversial song aimed at France following their Copa América final win. The midfielder issued an apology, but the fallout was immediate. French teammates Malo Gusto, Axel Disasi and Wesley Fofana distanced themselves online, with Fofana calling it “uninhibited racism” in a social media post.

Where Enzo Fernández lives now

Fernández and his partner Valentina Cervantes gave fans a rare look inside their lavish London home earlier this year. The couple, who share two children, let Argentine TV show *Por El Mundo* film their sprawling mansion in Chelsea. The property features a heated outdoor pool, a modern kitchen with floor-to-ceiling windows and a treehouse for the kids. “We moved recently to this house,” Valentina said. “Enzo really likes changing houses. He says it renews his energy.”

The rollercoaster relationship behind the scenes

Fernández and Valentina split in 2024 after he reportedly told her he no longer wished to be with her. The breakup became public in October that year, though Valentina later admitted they’d decided to take space. By early 2025, reports surfaced of a reconciliation, and she posted an Instagram snap confirming they were back together. “Second chances always come,” she told *Don’t Think So Much*. “No more third chances.” They now appear settled, with Valentina supporting Fernández at the World Cup in North America.