Dj Vnyash
Enzo Fernandez has expressed his apologies to several French players in Chelsea’s squad after teammate Wesley Fofana accused him of “uninhibited racism.”
The 23-year-old Argentine arrived in Atlanta, USA, and addressed a video he shared on social media following Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final on July 14. The video included a song sung by the Argentine team that referenced France’s black players, which the French Football Federation described as containing “racist and discriminatory” chants.
A complaint has been filed with FIFA, and Chelsea has conducted an internal disciplinary procedure that is now closed. The team features seven French players who are black or of mixed race, including Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile, Lesley Ugochukwu, Christopher Nkunku, Malo Gusto, and Fofana, all of whom were part of the US tour.
Fofana, who has one cap for France, shared the video on Instagram, labeling it as “uninhibited racism.”
According to BBC Sport, several players appreciated the initial discussions regarding the matter, and new manager Enzo Maresca is expected to confirm Fernandez’s return to the squad soon. Fernandez has also pledged to donate money to an anti-discrimination charity, with Chelsea matching the contribution.
Maresca downplayed the situation during his first press conference as manager, expressing confidence that there would be “no problems at all” upon Fernandez’s return. Noni Madueke echoed this sentiment, saying the situation would “be fine,” while captain Reece James acknowledged it as a “problem” and offered to act as a mediator.
An investigation by FIFA is still ongoing, which may involve the FA and potentially lead to a ban from domestic matches for Fernandez.
