May 20th 2024.
The final in Paris will take place just one week before the start of the new Premier League season. It is a highly anticipated event, with many teams looking forward to competing for the title. However, for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, this summer may be even more hectic as he has been granted permission to join Argentina's squad for the Olympics.
Fernandez, who is only 23 years old, missed the last six Premier League games of the season due to a groin injury. But he has been included in his nation's squad for the Copa America, which takes place before the Olympics. However, he may have to prove his fitness in the coming weeks in order to secure his spot in the final squad.
Argentina's national team coach, Lionel Scaloni, named his provisional 29-man squad on Monday and Fernandez made the cut. But with three players potentially dropping out, Fernandez will have to work hard to secure his place. The team has two World Cup qualifiers and their Copa America campaign before the Olympics, giving Fernandez plenty of opportunities to prove himself.
It is a great honor for Fernandez to be included in the Olympics squad, as he is still under the age of 23. While clubs are not obligated to release their players for the tournament, Chelsea has reportedly given Fernandez permission to participate. This is a surprising decision, considering that the Copa America final takes place just one week before the start of the new Premier League season.
Fernandez has been out of action for the past month due to his injury, but Argentina's Under-23s boss, Javier Mascherano, is keen to have as many talented players as possible on the squad. He sees Fernandez as a crucial player, especially since he is the only one still eligible from Argentina's World Cup-winning squad.
When asked about his possible involvement in the Olympics, Fernandez expressed his excitement and stated that it ultimately depends on Chelsea's decision. He also mentioned that he has not discussed it with the team yet. Other players who are believed to have been granted permission to join the Olympics squad include Valentin Barco, Alan Varela, and Lucas Beltran.
Teams are allowed to bring three players over the age limit, and Argentina has some star players in mind for those spots. Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is expected to be one of them, along with veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi. The final spot is still up for grabs, with Manchester City's Julian Alvarez and Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez being considered.
The Olympics hold a special place in Martinez's heart, as it is the one thing he feels he is missing with the national team. Argentina has a proud history at the Olympics, having won the tournament in consecutive Games in 2004 and 2008. Some notable players who were part of those squads include Carlos Tevez, Javier Mascherano, and Lionel Messi.
This year's tournament in Paris is set to be highly competitive, with the likes of Thierry Henry coaching the French team and hoping to secure the participation of star player Kylian Mbappe. As for Chelsea, they will have to navigate the busy summer without Fernandez, who is set to take part in both the Copa America and the Olympics. But with a strong team and talented players, they are sure to make their mark in both competitions.
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