Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca believes there will be “no problems at all” when midfielder Enzo Fernandez joins the squad on their US pre-season tour on Monday, despite ongoing disciplinary proceedings related to alleged racism.
Fernandez, 23, faces accusations from the French Football Federation for singing a “racist and discriminatory” chant following Argentina’s Copa America victory. The chant in question contains lyrics that question the heritage of France’s black and mixed-race players.
Chelsea teammate Wesley Fofana, who has represented France once, posted a video of the chant on Instagram, labeling it “uninhibited racism.”
FIFA has launched an investigation into the incident, and Fernandez has issued an apology.
Maresca commented, “It is quite easy in terms of the player doing a statement to apologise. The club did the same, so I don’t think there is something to add in terms of the situation. It is already clear and clarified.”
When asked about potential issues within the squad, which includes seven French players of black or mixed-race descent, Maresca stated, “I don’t think so. They are all human beings. I don’t think there are any bad intentions from any of them. I don’t think when Enzo is back that we will have any situations. Enzo clarified the situation, the club the same, so there is nothing to add. They are not bad persons or human beings. It can happen but I don’t think there are any problems at all. I spoke with Enzo and all of them.”
Maresca, who was appointed in May, was accompanied by captain Reece James to preview Chelsea’s match against Wrexham in Santa Clara on Wednesday.
James remarked on the situation, saying, “It’s a difficult situation and Enzo has acknowledged he was wrong and quickly put his hand up to apologise to the club, team and people offended. Enzo hasn’t arrived yet. I will have to make that judgement [on whether to get involved] when he does. I hope everyone can move forward with the situation. I’ve spoken to Enzo and everyone involved but the conversations have to stay in house.”
