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Enzo Maresca explains Enzo Fernandez’s return to Chelsea squad after racism row
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca remains confident that midfielder Enzo Fernandez will seamlessly reintegrate into the squad for their pre-season tour of the United States, despite the ongoing investigation into allegations of racism.
Fernandez had issued an apology after posting a live video in which he and several Argentinian teammates sang a song following their Copa America win that questioned the backgrounds of France’s black and mixed-race players.
This incident drew public criticism from Chelsea defenders Wesley Fofana and David Datro Fofana, with Malo Gusto and Axel Disasi, along with Fofana, unfollowing Fernandez on Instagram.
Chelsea has initiated disciplinary proceedings against Fernandez. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday evening, Maresca addressed the situation. “I think it’s quite easy in terms of the player did a statement apologising, the club did the same,” the Italian said. “I don’t think there’s something to add in terms of this situation, it’s already clear and clarified.”
When asked if Fernandez might face issues upon his return to the squad next week, Maresca responded, “I don’t think so, to be honest. In the end, they are all human beings. I don’t think there is any bad intention from any one of them. So I don’t think when Enzo comes back we’ll have any kind of problem.”
He further explained, “As I said, the player already clarified the situation, the club did the same, there is nothing to add and once again, I think they are not bad persons or human beings, it can happen, but I don’t think it’s any problem at all. I spoke with Enzo, I spoke with all of them, as I said, the player already did a statement apologising, so it’s quite clear.”
Club captain Reece James also commented on the incident, saying, “It’s obviously a really difficult situation. I think Enzo acknowledged he did wrong and quickly put his hand up and apologised to the club, the team and the people offended.
He hasn’t arrived yet so I don’t know if there’s anything to amend. I’ll have to make that judgement when he comes back in. But I hope everyone will be on the same page and can kind of move forward from this situation. I’ve spoken to Enzo and everyone involved but the conversations have to stay in house.”
Chelsea’s pre-season schedule includes matches against Wrexham, Celtic, Club America, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Inter.