Fernández Stuns City Late as Managerless Chelsea Snatch Etihad Draw
Chelsea show character after managerial chaos
Enzo Fernández scored deep into stoppage time as Chelsea earned a dramatic 1-1 draw away at Manchester City, damaging the champions’ hopes of catching Premier League leaders Arsenal.
The Blues arrived at the Etihad Stadium in turmoil following the sudden departure of Enzo Maresca on New Year’s Day. With Under-21 coach Calum McFarlane placed in temporary charge, expectations were low against a City side chasing the title. Instead, Chelsea produced a disciplined and resilient performance to take a valuable point.
The result leaves City six points behind Arsenal at the top, while Chelsea gain momentum at a difficult moment for the club.
City control but struggle to kill the game
Manchester City dominated possession for long periods but found it difficult to break down Chelsea’s compact shape. Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva both tested the defence, while Erling Haaland struck the post after being released by Rodri, who was making his first start since October.
The breakthrough came three minutes before half-time. A loose ball fell kindly for Tijjani Reijnders inside the box and the midfielder showed composure to step past Benoît Badiashile and fire beyond Filip Jorgensen.
City looked in control at the break, but the narrow margin kept Chelsea alive.
Chelsea grow into the contest
After the restart, Chelsea began to show more confidence. Cole Palmer and Fernández started to find space between the lines, while Pedro Neto missed a good chance to equalise after a promising move.
City suffered a setback when Josko Gvardiol was forced off injured, disrupting their defensive rhythm. As the game wore on, frustration crept into the home side’s play and Chelsea sensed an opportunity.
Fernández delivers late Etihad shock
That moment arrived in stoppage time. Malo Gusto drove into the penalty area and Fernández reacted quickest after an initial save, stabbing the ball home from close range to silence the Etihad.
It was a huge goal for Chelsea and a major setback for City’s title ambitions. With Liam Rosenior expected to be confirmed as Chelsea’s new head coach, McFarlane bows out after delivering a result that could have lasting impact at both ends of the table.
