Manchester United vs Liverpool

Lore & Background

Fernández is an academy graduate of River Plate, making his first-team debut in 2019. He spent two seasons on loan with Defensa y Justicia, winning the Copa Sudamericana and Recopa Sudamericana. He returned to River Plate in 2021, joined Benfica in summer 2022, and moved to Chelsea in January 2023 for a British-record fee of €121 million. In September 2026, he joined Manchester City for £125 million, equalling the British transfer record and becoming the first player transferred for over £100 million twice. He won the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina, earning the Young Player Award, and was part of the 2024 Copa América-winning team.

Reader's Guide

Fernández plays as a midfielder. He made his senior international debut for Argentina in September 2022. At the 2022 World Cup, he scored against Mexico and became the second youngest Argentine to score in a World Cup, behind Lionel Messi. He also scored an own goal against Australia in the round of 16. He received a red card in the 2026 World Cup final.

Did You Know?

• Fernández joined River Plate's academy around 2005, 2006, or 2007; the exact year is unclear.
• He scored his first goal for Benfica on his debut, a half-volley from outside the box against Midtjylland.
• He is the first player in football history to be transferred for fees exceeding £100 million on two separate occasions.
• He scored Chelsea's opening goal in the 2025 Conference League final, a 4–1 win over Real Betis.