Football News: Enzo Fernandez Key for Chelsea to Beat Liverpool in Carabao Cup Final
In his latest column, Sky Sports’ football expert Paul Merson explains why Chelsea’s new signing Enzo Fernandez will need to play a Jorginho-esque role if the Blues are to overcome Liverpool in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final.
“I’m more confident about Chelsea’s chances now than I was after their 4-1 loss to Liverpool at Anfield in January,” Merson said. “It all comes down to who is fit for Liverpool – if Mo Salah and Darwin Nunez are available, it’s a completely different story. But if they don’t play, I think it’ll be a 50-50 game.”
The former Arsenal player believes Chelsea are hitting form at the right time, pointing to their solid performances against Crystal Palace and Manchester City. “Now that Curtis Jones is out injured, I think Chelsea will win the midfield battle,” he added.
Merson stressed the importance of Enzo Fernandez replicating Jorginho’s impact when Arsenal recently defeated Liverpool. “Chelsea have to find a way to beat Liverpool’s press, and if Fernandez can play the same way Jorginho did for Arsenal, that swings the advantage towards the Blues.”
The Carabao Cup final holds significant importance for the managers, with Merson stating that a trophy would help Mauricio Pochettino win over Chelsea fans and provide a springboard for future success. “Winning this trophy is so important for both clubs,” he said.
The Title Race and Manchester United’s Plans
Merson believes the next five matches for both Arsenal and Manchester City will be crucial in the Premier League title race. “If City win their next five league games, you’d expect them to win the title. But Arsenal have a very favorable run of fixtures coming up, so it’s really in the balance.”
The expert also discussed Manchester United’s plans, stressing the importance of bringing in director of football Dan Ashworth to improve the club’s recruitment strategy. “Ashworth is the future, so you have to pay whatever it takes to get him,” Merson said.
Overall, the Carabao Cup final promises to be a tight encounter, with Chelsea’s midfield performance and Enzo Fernandez’s ability to control the game set to be a decisive factor in determining the outcome.
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