Why £106m Chelsea man Enzo Fernandez could MISS the rest of the season as Argentina star sets sights on Copa America – explained

The Albiceleste, with eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi in their ranks, will be looking to defend their continental crown on U.S. soil this summer. Their intention is to call upon the services of World Cup winner Fernandez for that competition.

Fernandez is, however, carrying an inguinal hernia problem that will require him to undergo an operation. No decision has been made as yet regarding a date for surgery, but the Argentina camp are pushing for that procedure to take place as soon as possible.

Argentina news outlet Ole points out that if the 23-year-old midfielder were to go under the knife imminently, then he would be fully recovered in time for the Copa America. That competition is due to get underway on June 20 – with the world champions opening things up against Canada.

A major sticking point when it comes to surgery for Fernandez is that he would miss the remainder of the season at Chelsea if he were to seek hernia treatment at this stage. The Blues are still pushing for European qualification, with a battle of wills now on the cards as a club versus country debate breaks out in west London.