Lee Dixon compared Enzo Fernandez’s free kιck against Aston Villa as a “world class” effort.

Despite having a rough go of it since joining Chelsea for £107 million from Benfica, the midfielder nearly had his greatest game for the club in a 3-1 victory over Aston Villa.

In the opening half, Fernandez helped control the game as his connection with Moises Caicedo finally blossomed. He moved to Chelsea after a good World Cup campaign with victors Argentina.He put his team up 3-0 with a spectacular free kιck just before the hour, and they were already in a great position to advance to the FA Cup fifth round, even if they were in a tough position to begin with.

In what was maybe Fernandez’s best performance to date while wearing the Chelsea shirt, he curled a shot over the wall and beyond international teammate Emi Martinez. ITV commentator Lee Dixon gave the effort top marks.Dixon gushed after the goal, saying, “He’s absolutely world class.” The midfielder had controlled the first half. No matter how close he gets with his glove, even the best goalkeepers can’t stop the ball from going past them.

Nearly flawless, yet decent. His partnership with Caicedo in the Chelsea midfield has been a major strength, and his spectacular free kιck has put the cherry on top.He swung the ball straight up and dropped it. There was just one taker, even though two or three other players were picking up and moving the ball. He maintained his composure, carefully observed the upper corner, and spoke the exact words.

As part of a midfield pairing with Caicedo that cost more than £220 million, Fernandez has been heavily criticized for Chelsea’s play this season.

After last weekend’s loss to Wolves, the Blues’ already trying season dropped them to eleventh place in the Premier League standings.

But they are still in the domestic cup competitions, having guaranteed themselves a place in the FA Cup final and the League Cup fifth round.As he was embraced by his teammates, the midfielder removed his shirt and held it up to the camera, seemingly releasing pent-up rage in his celebration of the goal.

Conor Gallagher and Nicolas Jackson scored for Chelsea, who won the game 3-1. The home team’s Moussa Diaby scored an ιnjury-time consolation goal.