Both players, signed on transfer deadline day for a combined £185m, were given a late call-up into the starting XI, with Fernandez playing in the number eight role and Ndiaye showcasing his trickery and pace on the wing. Despite having limited time on the training ground with their new team-mates, the duo impressed in their first outing, with Fernandez touching the ball six times in the opposition area and Ndiaye attempting eight dribbles, the most of any player on the pitch.
Manager Enzo Maresca, who knows Fernandez from his time in charge at Chelsea, was pleased with what he saw from his new players, stating that it is easier for a player to adapt when they already know the manager's style of play.