Fernandez scored a 94th-minute equalizer to salvage a result for the West Londoners and undermine their hosts’ title ambitions in Manchester.
Chelsea had gone into the match without a head coach following the departure of Enzo Maresca on New Year’s Day.
The Italian’s row with the board included the revelation that the ex-Man City assistant had held talks with his former team over a possible future role at Etihad, adding an intriguing subplot to the game.
Tijjani Reijnders scored the opening goal for Manchester City just before half-time, as the Dutchman thundered an effort past stand-in goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen to give the Citizens the lead.
Pep Guardiola’s team pressed on for a while, but Chelsea grew into the match after the break and deserved the late equalizer.
A low cross found a route to Fernandez at the back post and the Argentine scrambled home at the second attempt after Gianluigi Donnarumma failed to clear.
The result moves City back up to second place in the Premier League, but the gap with Arsenal is now six points after the Gunners won at Bournemouth on Saturday.
Chelsea move back above Manchester United to fifth place, three points behind Liverpool in the race for Champions League qualification.
James praises Chelsea’s unity after Maresca’s departure
Speaking to Sky Sports at full-time, Chelsea captain Reece James said the squad had been forced to focus on the task at hand despite the uncertainty surrounding the club’s management position.
“We had to accept what we were doing earlier in the week and put it behind us. We came here with a game plan.
“In the first half we made a small mistake for their goal. But in the second half we grew into the game and knew there would be a chance. [Enzo Fernandez] grabbed the opportunity when it presented itself.
“We have to stand together as a unit. We are one. We missed a lot of players today, but so many other players stepped up. We fought as a team and I am proud of the boys.”
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