Pablo Zabaleta has claimed that Argentina’s rising star Enzo Fernandez will ‘go to a big club’ in the summer, amid rumours Liverpool are looking at the Benfica midfielder.
The 21-year-old started his first game for Argentina on Wednesday and helped his nation secure a 2-0 win over Poland and progress to the knockout stages of the Qatar World Cup, after his heroics against Mexico last time out.
To perhaps upstage Lionel Messi on a world stage is difficult to do, but against Mexico, with one of the pre-World Cup favourites needing a win, Fernandez did that by scoring an outstanding curling effort.
There is interest from Premier League teams in the attack-minded midfielder, with Liverpool and Manchester United two clubs mentioned.
Former Manchester City defender Zabaleta was ‘happy’ to see Fernandez starting against the Polish and he described him as an ‘intelligent’ and ‘terrific’ player, as he told Match of the Day.
“I am so happy about this (Fernandez starting for Argentina),” said Zabaleta. “He has been really good in both games, he came off the bench and was one of the best players for Argentina.
“He’s a young player, only 21 and he has been terrific for Benfica. I think next summer, he will go to a big club, for sure.
“But he has a vision. He is intelligent. His passing and shooting ability is great and workrate is also good. He can play as a number four, in front of that back four, but also as a number eight.”
IS ENZO FERNANDEZ PREMIER LEAGUE BOUND?
One thing is for sure, his reputation is certainly rising in Qatar and it will only rise if Argentina meet expectations at the World Cup.
Alongside their South American neighbours, they have been tipped to secure glory, and despite their indifferent start, Fernandez has been a shining light.
Well, it seems as though it’s not just Liverpool who are keen to add the Benfica man to their ranks this summer, but La Liga giants and current Champions League holders, Real Madrid, are also keen.
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