Frank Christian
Enzo Fernandez is scheduled to participate in Chelsea’s preseason tour in the United States despite facing scrutiny for involvement in a racism controversy.
In a recent development, the 23-year-old shared a video featuring himself and teammates singing a chant that has drawn criticism for its racist and homophobic content towards France during post-match celebrations.
Fernandez is expected to take part in Chelsea’s upcoming preseason fixtures against Club America, Manchester City, and Real Madrid before the team heads back to the UK for the new Premier League season.
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Following his recent triumph in the Copa America with Argentina, the incident sparked significant disapproval from his colleagues, and Fernandez is anticipated to address them in the forthcoming days as he travels to the US, according to a recent report from The Daily Mail.
The report indicates that Fernandez, presently under investigation by the club, will land in the States on Monday. It also suggests that he might have to clarify and mend the situation with his teammates, some of whom have openly criticized his actions.
The 2⃣8⃣ Blues travelling Stateside. #BluesInTheUSA pic.twitter.com/LrjY2acHEN
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 22, 2024
In response to the backlash, Fernandez has issued an apology for the video, affirming that it does not align with his beliefs or character. Chelsea captain Reece James disclosed earlier this week that he had made an effort to communicate with Fernandez, acknowledging that the incident could have adverse effects on the team’s unity.
James stated to ESPN: “Of course. There’s always the factor where it doesn’t sit right with people when there could be a problem. But until the day comes where everyone’s together and in a room together, I don’t know, but I hope things can be resolved smoothly and we can move forward with the season.
“I spoke to him a bit, but it was hard because we were on different time zones. Just a general chat really. His views on what happened and him trying to explain his situation and how things happened. It’s a really difficult situation. There’s no room for racism or discrimination in football.
“I think he quickly put his hand up and acknowledged he’d done wrong and apologized to his teammates, the club, and the rest of the people that were offended. I think that was probably the best he could have done in that situation.”
