In what was already billed as one of the most dramatic encounters of the season, the showdown between Chelsea and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge took a heated turn with an intense exchange between Enzo Fernandez and Mason Mount.
The highly anticipated match saw Chelsea emerge victorious after a thrilling 4-3 battle, with the home side staging a remarkable comeback in the dying minutes. However, amidst the on-field action, the spotlight fell on an altercation between Fernandez and Mount, adding a contentious subplot to the intense rivalry.
Mount, who left Chelsea for Manchester United last summer in a £60 million deal, returned to his former club amid a mixed reception from fans. Some supporters labeled him a ‘traitor,’ evident from jeers and derogatory banners directed at him.
During the match, TNT Sports cameras captured Fernandez directing an X-rated tirade at Mount, reportedly calling him a ‘coward’ multiple times. Also spotted was a Chelsea fan who lifted up a 2021-22 edition of their home shirt which read ‘JUDAS 19’.
Though Mount wears the No 7 for United, during his Chelsea days he wore the No 19 – making it a clear reference by the home supporters.
It was a night to forget for Mount, who spent four full seasons at Chelsea, as he watched his side capitulate deep into added time at Stamford Bridge.
After letting slip a one-goal lead in the ninth minute of stoppage time to suffer a heart-breaking defeat, it emerged that the two midfielders had clashed, with Fernandez sending an X-rated tirade Mount’s way.
‘This is Chelsea, you ****, coward, coward, coward,’ the Argentine is thought to have said to Mount.
Reports suggest Fernandez used the Spanish word ‘cagon’, which means ‘coward’ or ‘chicken’ after Palmer’s winning goal at the end of a dramatic encounter.
While some Chelsea supporters applauded Fernandez’s actions, others criticized his behavior, pointing to his underwhelming performance since joining Chelsea for £107 million over a year ago. The incident sparked a debate on social media, with opinions divided on Fernandez’s conduct towards Mount.
Despite the intense rivalry and verbal sparring, the clash highlighted the emotional intensity and passion surrounding the encounter between two Premier League giants.
