Enzo Fernandez will not face any formal disciplinary action from Chelsea after issuing a face-to-face apology to team-mates offended by his posting of a song with racist connotations on social media.
The video showed Argentina’s players repeating a chant that questioned the heritage of France’s black and mixed-race players shortly after Fernandez helped them retain their Copa America crown with victory over Colombia on July 14.
Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana described the video as “uninhibited racism” while it was reported the club’s other French players were equally unhappy.
Fernandez returned from an extended summer break to join his club mates on their pre-season tour of the United States yesterday and is believed to have provided an immediate apology as well as pledging a large voluntary donation to an anti-discrimination charity.
Out in Atlanta. 🇺🇸#BluesInTheUSA pic.twitter.com/xroVtSgxct
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 29, 2024
Chelsea, who will match the donation, now consider the case closed, although FIFA are still conducting their own investigation and could yet sanction the 23-year-old.
Not helpful for new coach Maresca
It is an unwanted distraction for new head coach Enzo Maresca, who insisted last week there would be no”no problems at all” when Fernandez returned.
Captain Reece James, who it is understood has played a leading role in mediating between the squad and Fernandez, struck a different tone, admitting last week there could be a “problem”.
Chelsea’s tour of the US has not gone to plan on the pitch with Maresca’s side drawing 2-2 with League One side Wrexham before a 4-1 thrashing by Scottish champions Celtic.
Next up is a clash with Manchester City on Saturday.
