Fernandez was born and raised in Buenos Aires, where tonight's qualifer takes place. And he called the Estadio Monumental home during his time at boyhood club River Plate.

The 22-year-old returns as a world champion after his country's success in Qatar. The challenge is to now secure Argentina's place at the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

That is no easy feat given South America qualifying also contains the likes of Brazil, Uruguay, Colombia, Chile and Ecuador.

It is the latter Argentina will face this evening and there is expected to be a familiar face for Fernandez in the opposition midfield: Moises Caicedo.

The 21-year-old midfielder joined Chelsea last month from Brighton and Hove Albion and has quickly been deployed alongside Fernandez at Stamford Bridge. As two Spanish speakers, they have formed a quick bond.

'Moises is a great person,' said Fernandez while on international duty. 'He has now arrived at Chelsea and we have talked a little about everything – not specifically about the game but swapping shirts after.

'Ecuador are a strong team, physically they are very good. They have been working for a while and have a great idea of the game, but we will do our job in the best way and with our people.'

Enzo has become a mainstay in the Chelsea side following his January move from Benfica. He is yet to miss a Premier League fixture and has featured in our opening five matches this term.

His position has been tweaked by new head coach – and compatriot – Mauricio Pochettino. There is now more attacking responsibility placed on Fernandez's shoulders.

He said: ‘Now I am playing further forward [at Chelsea], but it is not a problem because as a boy I played as a five and of eight.

'I don't have a problem but it is a big difference: you have to stay with the defenders more as a five, while you have to let go more and help the forwards as an eight.’