Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso confirmed that the club is preparing for multiple outcomes regarding Enzo Fernandez’s future amid growing speculation about the midfielder’s potential departure before the transfer deadline on Tuesday. Fernandez was left out of the squad for the second consecutive game, including Saturday’s 4-3 Premier League victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge.

Alonso did not confirm whether Fernandez’s absence signaled the end of his time at Chelsea but emphasized that the decision was made in the team’s best interest. "We have to be aware [until] Tuesday what is going to develop. We are preparing for all scenarios," Alonso said. His comments came against the backdrop of reported interest from Manchester City and indications that Fernandez is keen on a move.

Fernandez’s absence was noticeable as Chelsea surrendered the commanding lead they had established early in the match. The Blues surged to a 3-0 advantage within 30 minutes through goals from Romeo Lavia, Pedro Neto, and Joao Pedro, only to see Brighton fight back with goals from Malick Yalcouyé and an own goal by Pedro. The match nearly reached a stalemate before Cole Palmer secured the final goal, calming Chelsea’s nerves and extending their winning run.

Alonso acknowledged the team’s defensive struggles and the difficulty in maintaining a lead. “It happens in many teams that have worked many games together. We are in this process. I am sure that this result, in the future we can manage it better,” he said, referring to Chelsea’s ongoing efforts to achieve greater stability.

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made his debut after joining from Aston Villa, stepping in for Robert Sanchez, who was absent from the squad amid doubts over his future following recent errors. Alonso praised Martinez’s experience and leadership qualities, noting, "A World Cup winner, 34 [on Wednesday], experience all around. I’m happy with his first impact."

Despite Martinez’s addition, Chelsea’s run without a clean sheet in the league extended to 18 matches. Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler expressed frustration that his side were unable to capitalize on a strong performance, especially after taking a three-goal lead on the road. “The frustrating part is we controlled the game, scored three away and had [a] lot of chances but lost,” Hürzeler said, pointing to a lack of balance between offense and defense as the key issue.

Chelsea now face uncertainty on several fronts as they navigate transfer developments and seek to tighten their defensive performance while pursuing their ambitions in the Premier League.