Enzo Fernandez has described his move to Manchester City as the fulfilment of a long-held ambition after completing a £125m transfer from Chelsea on the final day of the summer transfer window.
The 25-year-old midfielder has signed a five-year contract with Manchester City, bringing his spell at Chelsea to an end after joining the London club from Benfica in 2023.
“I always dreamed of joining such a big club as Manchester City,” Fernandez said after the transfer was completed.
The deal makes Fernandez the latest arrival at Manchester City and gives him the opportunity to begin a new stage of his career at the club. The transfer was finalised on the closing day of the summer window, with the fee agreed at £125m.
Fernandez’s first opportunity to represent his new side could come on 5 September, when Manchester City are scheduled to face Coventry. That match would provide a potential early debut for the midfielder following his move from Chelsea.
The transfer ends Fernandez’s time at Chelsea, where he had played since his arrival from Benfica in 2023. His move to Manchester City means he will now continue his career at a club he has described as one of the biggest in football.
The five-year agreement gives Fernandez a long-term commitment at Manchester City, while the size of the fee underlines the significance of his switch from Chelsea. However, his first competitive appearance for the club remains dependent on whether he is selected for the meeting with Coventry.
For now, Fernandez has spoken positively about the move, focusing on the personal importance of joining Manchester City. His comments came shortly after the transfer was confirmed, with the England club completing the signing before the summer deadline.
The possible debut date of 5 September means Fernandez may not have to wait long to wear the Manchester City shirt for the first time. His arrival has therefore quickly turned attention towards the fixture with Coventry and the start of his five-year spell at the club.
Fernandez previously represented Benfica before moving to Chelsea in 2023. After two years with Chelsea, he has now left the club in a deal worth £125m and will continue his career with Manchester City.