Enzo Fernandez has completed a high-profile transfer to Manchester City, finalizing a £125 million deal that equals the British transfer record. The Argentine midfielder joined City on transfer deadline day, moving from Chelsea where he had played since 2023 following his £106 million arrival from Benfica.

Fernandez signed a five-year contract reportedly worth £250,000 per week. He expressed enthusiasm about joining a club he described as among the most successful and well-run in English football. "From the first day they believed in me and called me to say they wanted me to join the club, I didn’t hesitate for a second," he said. Fernandez sees City as a club "making history" and emphasized his desire to contribute to winning multiple trophies.

The move also reunites Fernandez with Manchester City's new head coach, Enzo Maresca, who managed him during a successful spell at Chelsea. The pair won the Club World Cup and Conference League during their time together at Stamford Bridge. Fernandez praised Maresca's passion and managerial abilities, stating, "He made a big effort, speaking to the club, and I’m grateful that he did that."

Fernandez acknowledged the significant changes at City this summer, including numerous new signings and departures. Despite Pep Guardiola's departure after a decade that produced ten trophies, Fernandez remains confident in the club’s capacity to maintain its winning standards. "City have to win every trophy they compete for," he said. "This club’s history demands it."

Prior to the transfer, there appeared to be a negotiation standoff, with Chelsea initially valuing Fernandez at £135 million before eventually lowering the price to facilitate the deal. Fernandez publicly expressed gratitude toward Chelsea fans in a farewell message posted late on transfer deadline day but quickly shifted focus to his ambitions with Manchester City. He stated, "I always dreamed of being at a club as big as City. We’ll enjoy ourselves and win lots of things together."

Fernandez also highlighted his professional commitment and determination to improve. "I pride myself on continually improving my game... I give absolutely everything and I can promise Manchester City that will continue now I’m here."

Choosing the number 17 shirt, Fernandez mentioned an element of personal significance linked to his faith, describing a Bible verse that coincided with his transfer as inspirational.

Manchester City’s signing of Fernandez caps a summer of substantial squad restructuring under Maresca, who faces the challenge of following Guardiola’s extraordinary tenure. The club and player alike have set high expectations for immediate success in domestic and European competitions.