Gary Neville has criticized Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández for failing to take control during Chelsea’s crucial 3-1 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, a result that could threaten their Champions League ambitions.
Despite having two of the Premier League’s most expensive signings in their midfield, Chelsea couldn’t maintain their early lead and failed to respond after Manchester City equalized just before halftime. The Blues showed promise when Noni Madueke put them ahead early, but their momentum fizzled out, and they struggled in the second half. Chelsea managed just one shot on target and saw their expected goals (xG) drop drastically from 1.62 in the first half to 0.18 in the second.Neville, speaking on the *Gary Neville Podcast*, was particularly critical of Caicedo and Fernández, questioning whether they were justifying their high price tags. He expressed frustration that the duo didn’t step up after City’s equalizer, saying, “Fantastic players go and get on top of the game, grab it by the scruff of the neck. With Palmer in that midfield, they didn’t do that.”
The midfielders, both acquired for significant sums in the summer, were expected to lead Chelsea’s play and control the tempo. However, against a City side known for their pressing and dominance, they were unable to assert themselves. Neville emphasized that Chelsea’s failure to respond to City’s equalizer could have long-term consequences for their season.I’m not having a go at them, but I’m frustrated by what I’ve seen,” Neville added. “They’ll look back and think you could have done more – that’s the worst feeling. It could cost them the Champions League next season.”
Chelsea’s inability to build on their early advantage leaves them in sixth place in the Premier League, putting their Champions League qualification at risk. Neville warned that the loss could prove costly, saying, “They should have really sent a message to Manchester City, and they didn’t. I would be deflated if I were a Chelsea fan.”With their high-profile signings yet to deliver in a pivotal match, Chelsea’s future prospects rest on whether their marquee players can step up and guide the team back into the top four and into next season’s Champions League.