Chelsea initiates internal disciplinary procedure against Enzo Fernandez

London

Wednesday, July17, 2024 

By Robert Mutasi 

Chelsea have "launched an internal disciplinary procedure" following Enzo Fernandez's video posted on social media, which the French Football Federation claims is racist.

After Argentina defeated Colombia in the Copa America final on Sunday, Fernandez and a few of his teammates were seen on his account live on Instagram singing a song critical of the French team.

Wesley Fofana, Fernandez's Chelsea team-mate, reposted the video on X with the words: "Football in 2024: unfettered racism".

Fernandez later apologized on Instagram for posting the video and any offense its content may have caused. 

On Wednesday morning, Chelsea issued a club statement condemning the act of Enzo Fernandez terming it as "discrimination". 

"Chelsea Football Club considers all forms of discriminatory behavior to be completely unacceptable. We pride ourselves on being a great inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities and identities feel welcome.

We accept and appreciate our player's public apology and will use this as an opportunity to educate.

The club has established an internal disciplinary procedure." The statement read.

The Blues released a statement following Fernandez's appearance in the video apology.

"This song has very offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse for these words," the 23-year-old  Enzo said.

"I am against discrimination of all kinds and I apologize for getting caught up in the joy of our Copa America celebrations. The video, the moment, the words, do not reflect my beliefs or my character. I am truly sorry."