Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso said he left Enzo Fernandez out of the squad to face Luton because he had to do what is best for the team. Alonso said in the build-up to the Carabao Cup tie that he expected Fernandez to play.Chelsea had set a deadline of last Friday for Manchester City to sign the Argentina international. However, they are still said to be open to a sale if they get at least �120million and are able to sign a replacement.But the midfielder was surprisingly not involved as Alonso fielded a strong team against League One opposition.Alonso said: We assess individually, collectively, what is the best for the team. We made that decision.It was our decision from myself and the club. Its just because of the game today and we needed players to get minutes.Fernandez was a second-half substitute as Alonsos men began their Premier League campaign with a 3-2 win over west London rivals Fulham on Monday.Chelsea have also been linked with a move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez before Tuesdays deadline.Alonso would not be drawn but did drop Robert Sanchez for the cup tie with Mike Penders making his debut.Alonso said: I like to talk about the players in my changing room. Its not respectful to speak on other things.We are happy with the squad we have. I have always said that we need to be aware of situations. In this period, we can make decisions. Lets see what happens. Topics Chelsea F.C. Manchester City F.C. Real Madrid CF Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Chelsea 2-0 Luton: Welbeck scores on debut Tom Rostance 27th August, 2026 LIVE Chelsea v Luton: Commentary, updates, goals and stats Jon Fisher 26th August, 2026 Chelsea v Luton: Palmer and Rogers start as teams confirmed for EFL Cup tie Tom Rostance 27th August, 2026 Champions League: Arsenal to face Real Madrid and Bayern Munich Tom Rostance 27th August, 2026 Maresca keen to add a captain at Manchester City before transfer window shuts Mitch Fretton 27th August, 2026 Delap backs Glasner to help him make the next step after completing �50m Forest move Nicholas McGee 27th August, 2026
