Featured Image Credit: Getty/Enzo Fernandez Instagram
Topics: Enzo Fernandez, Chelsea, Argentina, Copa America, Football, France
Marcus Chan
Topics: Enzo Fernandez, Chelsea, Argentina, Copa America, Football, France
Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez has reportedly apologised to his teammates on the back of the alleged 'racist' song directed at members of the France national team.
On Sunday night, Argentina clinched glory at the 2024 Copa America after beating Colombia 1-0 in the final at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Lautaro Martinez’s goal in the 112th minute was enough to seal victory for Lionel Scaloni’s men.
During the aftermath of Argentina’s victory, Chelsea midfielder Fernandez posted a video of him and his teammates celebrating on the team bus.
In the footage, the Argentine players were heard singing an allegedly racist chant directed at French players.
Advert
The chant was translated to: “They play for France, but their parents are from Angola. Their mother is from Cameroon, while their father is from Nigeria. But their passport says, French.”
Since then, Chelsea have released a statement condemning the chants. It was also reported that FIFA have started an investigation into the matter.
Now, as reported by The Telegraph, Fernandez has privately apologised to his Chelsea teammates.
Advert
The report stated: “Other than issuing a public apology for his part in the video, Telegraph Sport understands that Fernandez apologised on a message that was circulated around the entire Chelsea squad.
“Chelsea have confirmed that the club has started an internal disciplinary procedure over the matter that is likely to see Fernandez fined.”
Chelsea forward David Fofana wrote on Instagram: “The football that I like is multi-ethnic. Racism in all its forms should be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
“These acts have no place in football or even anywhere else. This fight really needs to be taken seriously by everyone involved in this sport.”
Advert
Posting on social media, Fernandez wrote: “I want to apologise sincerely for a video posted on my Instagram channel during the national team celebrations.
“The song includes highly offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse for these words. I stand against discrimination in all forms and apologise for getting caught up in the euphoria of our Copa America celebrations. That video, that moment, those words, do not reflect my beliefs or my character. I am truly sorry.”