Enzo Fernandez appeared to aim a parting dig at Chelsea by saying he had always dreamed of playing for a club as big as Manchester City.

The World Cup-winning midfielder matched the British transfer record when he completed a £125m move to City on deadline day.

The Argentina international had joined Chelsea in January 2023 for £107m and went on to help the club win the Club World Cup.

However, although Chelsea have won the Champions League twice as many times as City, they did not challenge for the Premier League title during Fernandez’s spell at Stamford Bridge.

The former Benfica midfielder, who had been pushing for the transfer, said: “I always dreamed of being at a club as big as City. I’m grateful for the opportunity. It’s a very emotional moment for me and my family, to take this step at 25 years old, in a football career that I always dreamed of. I’m so happy to be here, enjoying these first few hours I’ve had at the club.

“Manchester City have to win every trophy they compete for. In every competition we play in, we have to compete and win, because this club’s history demands that.”

Fernandez’s arrival completes a £326m midfield rebuild, after the signings of Elliot Anderson for £116m and Ayyoub Bouaddi for £85m.

He added: “The team City are building this year is incredible, and it makes me really happy that they are going in that direction.”

Fernandez has also been reunited with his former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, and he thanked the Italian for helping convince City to bring him in.

Enzo Fernandez is delighted to be reunited with Enzo Maresca.

“We were both very eager for it to happen, because it wasn’t easy for me to be here today,” he added. “But I know he also made a big effort, speaking to the club, and I’m grateful that he did that. It was a long few days, but in the end I’m here and I’m very happy to be joining this club.”