Chelsea have reportedly stepped in to prevent one of their players from participating at the Olympic Games.
The 2023-24 campaign has concluded for the majority of countries with the focus for some players turning to representing their nations at Euro 2024 or the Copa America.
However, the rare opportunity to feature at an Olympics is also around the corner, with that tournament due to take place between July 24 and August 10.
Such dates will impact on clubs around the world with clubs either midway through their pre-seasons or already fully engrossed in a league campaign.
With regards to the Premier League, that is currently not due to start until August 17, although this could potentially switch to a day earlier to accommodate television coverage.
Nevertheless, Chelsea are seemingly not prepared to allow one of their star players to spend up to several weeks away from club's duties.
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Fernandez, Argentina dealt blow
According to journalist Uriel Lugt, who was writing on X, Fernandez will not be allowed to be named as one of Argentina's over-aged players.
Fernandez has already expressed a desire to feature in the tournament in France on the back of representing the world champions at the Copa America.
The 23-year-old underwent hernia surgery in April to give himself the best chance of being fit for that tournament, as well as the Olympic competition that follows.
Instead, with the possibility of being away at the Copa America until July 15, Chelsea seemingly want Fernandez to undergo a rest period before linking up with their pre-season plans.
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How may Fernandez react?
Fernandez's best form as a professional has arguably come for Argentina, with the player earning the Young Player of the Year accolade at the 2022 World Cup.
Despite the natural disappointment of their former club-record signing, Chelsea officials will expect Fernandez to react professionally given the money that they have invested in him.
That said, at a time of upheaval at Stamford Bridge when Enzo Maresca is expected to be named as the club's new head coach, it remains to be seen whether there will be any ramifications for Chelsea's hardline stance.
Although Chelsea produced their best results of the season when Fernandez was recently sidelined, he still possesses a contract at the West Londoners until 2032.
Darren Plant
