Enzo Fernandez has left new Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca facing a full-blown dressing room crisis after a video emerged of the midfielder singing a racist and homophobic chant about France players. The video, filmed on the Argentina team bus after their Copa America victory, includes slurs targeting Kylian Mbappe and stereotypes about French players' origins.
Fernandez apologised on social media, stating: 'I want to apologise sincerely. The song includes highly offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse for these words. I stand against discrimination in all forms.' However, his apology has not appeased what has been described as 'a gross unhappiness' among several Chelsea stars, who have been making their displeasure clear.
Wesley Fofana reacted publicly, posting: 'Football in 2024: uninhibited racism.' Fellow French players Christopher Nkunku, Axel Disasi, Malo Gusto, and Benoit Badiashile have unfollowed Fernandez on social media. David Datro Fofana also criticised the video, saying: 'Racism in all its forms should be condemned in the strongest possible terms.'
Nicolas Jackson initially posted support for Fernandez but deleted it after a social media backlash. A source close to Jackson said: 'Nicolas had no intention to cause controversy. It was a kind gesture to support a team-mate, acting in good faith.'
Chelsea released a statement calling the behaviour 'completely unacceptable' and confirmed an internal disciplinary procedure. The French FA is threatening legal action, and anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out has voiced support for Wesley Fofana. Fernandez is not due back at the club until the end of the month, leaving Maresca with a major test of his management skills.
