The Manchester City squad will have to block out the noise that currently surrounds the club. With the 115-case verdict having landed over the international break, it has cast a heavy spotlight on the club. Despite this, the City players and staff can only control what they can control. That is matters on the pitch. It will be up to Manchester City's leaders and experienced players to lead their team through the storm. The City squad is filled with players who thrive under intense pressure. One of those is Enzo Fernandez. With everything that surrounds Manchester City, the Argentinian midfielder looks to be made to thrive in the current climate.
Manchester City have been cast as the villains of English football. The 115 verdict has seen City portrayed as the evil empire that has sullied the name of the Premier League. For me, that claim is laughable. But the coverage of the affair leaves no doubt about what is thought of the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders. The City players will have to play through this lens starting today against Liverpool at Anfield. It will take incredible mental strength and fortitude for the City players to put all of that aside. They are capable of doing so. Enzo Fernandez looks to be made to thrive in the circumstances.
Enzo Fernandez is regarded as the villain of the piece. He has always been. Whether that is for Argentina or for Chelsea during his time there. Fernandez is combative, and will do whatever it takes to help his team win. His character, combined with his tremendous ability, makes him the player that he is. Playing for the 'most hated club' will not phase Enzo Fernandez. In fact, there is every possibility that he will rise to the occasion.
This trait is in his make-up and it will not shock me if Enzo Fernandez makes a stand for his team. If he can help lead the way, it will not be a surprise to see his teammates follow him. Enzo Fernandez is a leader on the pitch. Despite the fact that he has only been a Manchester City player for a short time, I'm expecting him to step up and help lead from the front.
Speaking on Friday, during his pre-game press conference ahead of Manchester City's clash with Liverpool, Enzo Maresca was asked if his players could play through the pressure. The scrutiny on City is fierce right now. However, Maresca made a point of pointing out that Enzo Fernandez is used to playing in cauldron like Anfield. Maresca explained: " Absolutely they can face the pressure. Absolutely. We have players that they already experience a similar situation. I don't know, Enzo Fernandez is playing in Argentina. Argentina, it's almost every game to go to Anfield. So it's not a problem. "
Manchester City will be leaning on their leaders to guide them through the storm that surrounds the club. There will be players for Enzo Maresca's side that will rise to the occasion. One of those looks to be Enzo Fernandez. The combative midfielder is made to thrive under pressure. That is at Manchester City's door and it will not come as a surprise to see him go up a level to help his team when it matters most.
