Enzo Fernandez fears suspension for racist chanting

Chelsea has initiated disciplinary proceedings against midfielder Enzo Fernandez following his social media video, which the French Football Federation has deemed to contain a potentially "racist and discriminatory" chant.

On Tuesday, the FFF announced its intention to lodge a formal complaint with the world governing body, Fifa, regarding a surfaced video. The video in question featured a song sung by certain members of the Argentina squad, which targeted France's black players.

Wesley Fofana, a Chelsea team-mate of Fernandez and a player with one cap for France, took to Instagram to share an image of the video, condemning it as an example of "uninhibited racism."

In a recent statement, Fernandez, who became the most expensive British signing ever in February 2023 with a staggering £107 million price tag, expressed his sincere apologies for a video he posted during Argentina's jubilation after winning the Copa America.

FIFA is investigating the video, which features various members of the Argentina squad participating in a song originally sung by Argentina fans, raising doubts about the ancestry of France's black and mixed-race players.

Chelsea's first-team squad boasts remarkable diversity, with seven black or mixed-race players. Among them are Fofana, Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile, Lesley Ugochukwu, Christopher Nkunku, Malo Gusto, and Malang Sarr.

"The song contains highly offensive language, and there is no justification for using such words," Fernandez stated.

"I firmly oppose any discrimination and regret being swept up in the excitement of our Copa America festivities.

"The video, the moments, and the question words do not align with my personal beliefs or character."

Chelsea released a statement expressing their acknowledgment and appreciation for their player's public apology. They also mentioned their intention to use this incident as a chance for education.

"The club has initiated an internal disciplinary process."

The FFF plans to contact the Argentine Football Association (AFA) regarding a live video Fernandez posted on social media following Argentina's 1-0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final on Sunday.

The president of the FFF, Philippe Diallo, has strongly condemned the discriminatory remarks made against the players of the French team, stating that such comments are unacceptable.

The statement emphasized the gravity of the remarks, which were deemed in direct violation of the principles of sportsmanship and human rights. In response, the president of the FFF took immediate action by reaching out to the Argentine counterpart and Fifa while also initiating legal proceedings to address the racially offensive and discriminatory nature of the comments.

The Argentine Football Association has been contacted for a statement.

In a thrilling match, France emerged victorious over Argentina in the last 16 of the 2018 World Cup. However, Argentina stunningly turned the tables, defeating France in the final of the 2022 World Cup.

A spokesperson from Fifa has acknowledged the existence of a video circulating on social media. They have stated that the incident captured in the video is currently under investigation.

FIFA has strongly condemned any discrimination from players, fans, or officials.

According to Chelsea, they strongly condemn any discriminatory behavior.

The club proudly stated that it is a diverse and inclusive community dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for individuals from all cultures, communities, and identities.

The details of Enzo's situation remain uncertain at this time. However, the 23-year-old has taken to Instagram to issue an apology. Although delivered in an unconventional font and presented as a narrative, the information provided has undergone some level of public relations management, at least in translation. Additionally, there is a peculiar suggestion of a cause-and-effect relationship between the moment's euphoria and the content discussed.

"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 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 character.

"I am truly sorry."

-Enzo Fernández; source: Instagram