Football

Two Chelsea players put in charge of ‘consultation’ between Enzo Fernandez and teammates after ‘racist’ chant

Enzo Fernandez issued an apology to his teammates after joining the Chelsea squad for their pre-season tour. Two players were identified as key figures in the resolution process.

This comes after a controversial video emerged on Fernandez’s Instagram story following Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final. The video showed Fernandez and his teammates chanting an offensive song targeting French players with African heritage, singling out their parents’ origins from countries like Angola, Cameroon, and Nigeria, despite their French passports.

The backlash was immediate, with all of Chelsea’s French players—Fofana, Axel Disassi, Benoit Badiashile, Malo Gusto, Lesley Ugochukwu, Christopher Nkunku, and Malang Sarr—unfollowing Fernandez on social media. Fernandez subsequently issued a public apology, especially after the French Football Federation (FFF) announced it would file a complaint to FIFA over the racially offensive remarks.

On Monday, Fernandez joined the Chelsea squad in Atlanta ahead of their pre-season matches against Club America, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan. According to Sky reporter Kaveh Solhekol, Fernandez apologized to his teammates immediately upon arrival. He has been active in training and team activities, including having lunch with the squad.

Fernandez has pledged to donate significantly to an anti-discrimination charity, with Chelsea matching his contribution. Discussions are ongoing about the best place to allocate these funds. This donation is part of his effort to atone for his actions, in addition to his public and private apologies.

Fernandez, along with captain Reece James and Axel Disasi, has been pivotal in consulting with other Chelsea players to address the situation. Chelsea initiated a disciplinary process against Fernandez, but the matter is now considered resolved due to his proactive apologies and charitable contributions. A FIFA investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

Chelsea captain Reece James acknowledged the potential impact on team morale but expressed hope for a smooth resolution. He confirmed that Fernandez admitted his wrongdoing and apologized to those affected.

James shared his own interactions with Fernandez, noting the challenges posed by different time zones. He emphasized that Fernandez’s acknowledgment of his mistake and his swift apology were crucial steps in addressing the issue. James reiterated the club’s stance against racism and discrimination, underscoring the importance of moving forward positively as a team.

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