Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez got involved in controversy with his Argentina teammates. The player shared a racist video which has caused disappointment. The Premier League side took disciplinary action against Fernandez. However, the situation is not easy to forget. Chelsea staff and players are constantly being asked about the questions regarding Fernandez. The matter is sensitive. Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca and club captain Reece James recently opened up about the Fernandez situation.
Fernandez’s viral video situation
Argentina defeated Colombia in the Copa America final. However the Argentine players were still thinking about their victory in world cup final against France. While celebrating the Copa America win, the players were seen chanting about French players. They were racist and transphobic chants. The chants were first sung by Argentina supporters. They say all French players are from Angola. In addition, they make transphobic references to Kylian Mbappe. Mbappe was reported to be in relationship with transgender model Ines Rau.
Enzo Fernandez was sharing Instagram live with the fans. The chanting of Argentine players was recorded by him. Someone was heard saying cut the video, but it was too late. The video went viral and Fernandez was found guilty. Chelsea took the matter seriously and have started an internal disciplinary procedure. However, his Chelsea teammates are upset with his actions.
Fernandez plays with several French players. He shares the pitch with Wesley Fofana, Malo Gusto, Christopher Nkunku, Axel Disasi, Lesley Ugochukwu and Benoit Badiashile. Fofana shared the video on his X account. In addition, he wrote Football in 2024 : uninhibited racism. Later, Fofana, Disasi and Gusto unfollowed Fernandez on Instagram.
Fernandez has apologized from his action. He tweeted that he is extremely sorry for his actions. In addition, Fernandez added that there is no excuse for the use of his words. Fernandez said that he stands against all discriminations.
Enzo Maresca about Fernandez
Chelsea are currently in United States for their pre-season games. Their boss was asked about Fernandez in a press conference. Maresca said that the player has already apologized and so has the club. He thinks that there is nothing more to add. In addition, Maresca thinks that the situation is already clear and clarified.
Maresca was then asked about the problems in the squad due to this situation. The Italian boss seems pretty calm about the situation. He said that it will not cause any problems. In addition, he said that all of the players involved are human beings. In Enzo’s defense Fernandez said that there is no bad intention from any of them.
Furthermore, Maresca thinks Enzo’s return will not cause any problems. Maresca said that he has already talked with Fernandez and all other players. He then repeated that Enzo has already apologized. And the situation is now clear.
Reece James about the situation
Chelsea captain Reece James was asked similar questions. James said that it is difficult situation. He added that Fernandez has already apologized to the club, players and fans. James said that Enzo hasn’t arrived yet. He thinks Enzo’s arrival will not cause any problems. To conclude, James said that he can’t give any more information cause the conversations have to stay inside the club. Both Enzo Maresca and Reece James seems to have handled the Fernandez situation well.
Chelsea are currently focused on their pre-season games. The club is preparing to do a lot better than last season. The Blues played against Wrexham in their first pre-season game. The match finished 2-2, with Nkunku and Ugochukwu scoring for Chelsea. Chelsea dominated the game with 75% ball possession and 700 accurate passing with an accuracy of 91%. However their defense still seems weak as they conceded 2 goals against a Championship side. All stats according to FOTMOB.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
