Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that the decision to leave Enzo Fernández out of the squad for the Carabao Cup fixture against Luton Town came from him and the club — not from the player himself.

Alonso dismissed suggestions that Fernández had requested the omission or that reported transfer interest from Manchester City played any role in the call. The decision, he insisted, was purely about what served the team best on the night and about creating opportunities for other players in the squad.

"We assess individually, collectively what's the best for the team, for tonight, what was better, for other players that were playing and we take the decision," Alonso told Sky Sports. "It was a decision from myself and from the club."

Backing the squad

The Chelsea head coach was quick to defend Fernández's professionalism, describing him as a player who continues to train at a high level and conduct himself well within the group.

Alonso also outlined his vision for the kind of squad he wants to build at Stamford Bridge — one that balances youth, experience, quality, and character in equal measure.

"We want to have a complete squad in all aspects, in quality, maturity, personality, young players with experienced players," he said. "It's important that young players get help to develop and in those cases the experienced players help a lot."

The Spaniard rounded off his post-match comments by praising the atmosphere generated by the supporters and called on the crowd to maintain that energy throughout the season ahead.