Enzo Fernandez was met with boos from sections of Chelsea fans during his first appearance for the club in a 3-1 victory over Real Sociedad.
Joao Pedro further impressed with a double goal, as manager Xabi Alonso hinted at a potential game plan for the season.
The match’s attention shifted to Fernandez’s second-half performance, occurring just 24 hours after Chelsea’s transfer deadline.
Fernandez had previously expressed interest in moving to Real Madrid before they disengaged interest. His agents later discussed offers from Manchester City, but none met Chelsea’s £120m valuation before the 17:00 BST deadline.
Fernandez drew boos from early-arriving supporters at Stamford Bridge 45 minutes before kick-off. The stadium’s announcer opted not to reveal substitutes’ names shortly before the match, but audible boos followed his 62nd-minute substitution.
Fans showed mixed reactions, with some chanting his name while others voiced disapproval.
Reece James’s gesture of handing his armband to Fernandez during a substitution signaled Alonso’s continued support despite the backlash.
Fernandez’s every touch of the ball drew a blend of boos and cheers, and he even received applause when fouled.
This backlash reflects Chelsea’s attempt to move past a prolonged transfer saga, with the club now expecting to retain one of its key players.
However, some supporters remain critical, citing his public interest in Madrid and claims by agent Javier Pastore that he is underpaid.
The situation may also impact perceptions of Fernandez among other Premier League clubs, especially given his social media comments after Argentina’s World Cup semi-final win over England.
Whether he stays at Chelsea or Manchester City revisits interest to reunite him with his former manager Enzo Maresca before the September 1 deadline will be a key storyline.