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According to a report by FootballTransfers on Saturday, October 31, 2026, Enzo Fernández has reiterated his desire to return to River Plate, the club where his professional career started, while insisting that his immediate focus remains on Manchester City.
The Argentina international joined City from Chelsea this summer in a reported €145 million deal, which the supplied report describes as a Premier League record transfer fee.
Fernández spent 15 years at River Plate, making 53 first-team appearances before moving to Europe to join Benfica in 2022.
Speaking on the Argentine programme Los Edul, the midfielder admitted that returning to his former club remains one of his personal ambitions.
“I want to return to River at some point. I’ve said it several times, and I’m sure I will,” he said, according to Sport Witness. “It’s something I really want. I stand by what I’ve said and what’s on record.”
The 25-year-old explained that his desire to return goes beyond his emotional connection with the club. He wants another opportunity to compete for trophies and experience River Plate's atmosphere for a longer period than he did during his first spell.
However, Fernández made it clear that he is not considering an immediate departure from Manchester City. His contract at the Etihad Stadium runs until 2031, and he acknowledged that there is still considerable time before a possible return to Argentina.
Since arriving at City on September 1, the midfielder has scored once in 10 appearances. A departure next year is considered unlikely unless there is a major change in circumstances.
Instead, the report suggests that Fernández could return to River Plate later in his career when he is ready to end his time in European football.
Meanwhile, other Manchester City players are facing uncertainty over their futures. Rayan Aït-Nouri has reportedly attracted interest from Manchester United after struggling to secure regular playing time.
Rico Lewis could also be considered for a transfer if his limited role continues, while Mateo Kovačić's future may depend on whether City offer him a contract extension. Otherwise, the midfielder could leave when his current deal expires.
For now, Fernández remains committed to Manchester City, although he has made it clear that returning to River Plate is an ambition he hopes to fulfil in the future.