After racism storm, Chelsea midfielder apologises, reintegrates with squad

Enzo Fernandez has apologised to his Chelsea team-mates after joining the squad in the USA following the racism storm around the midfielder.

Fernandez has been at the centre of a racism row this month after he posted a video on Instagram which appeared to show him and his Argentina team-mates engaging in a derogatory chant about the France national team during celebrations of their Copa America success.

Chelsea centre-back Wesley Fofana described it as “uninhibited racism” and, while FIFA’s investigation into the incident continues, Chelsea’s internal disciplinary process has now been concluded.

Fernandez joined up with the Chelsea squad on Monday in Atalanta and apologised immediately to his team-mates, with the apology understood to be accepted.

The 23-year-old, who moved to Chelsea in February 2023 for a then British-record transfer fee of £106.8m from Benfica, has already trained with the squad in the USA.

The Argentina international has told Chelsea he will be making a significant contribution to an anti-discrimination charity – with Chelsea matching his contribution – and talks are now underway to decide where the best place to donate the funds will be.

Chelsea started disciplinary proceedings against Fernandez two weeks ago after he posted a video on social media which the French Football Federation said contained a racist song about France’s black players.

Fernandez has been in contact with members of the squad following his public social media apology and private apology two weeks ago, but Monday was the first opportunity to apologise in person.

Fernandez, Chelsea captain Reece James and French defender Axel Disasi have been the lead figures in the consultation process with other Chelsea players.

Chelsea’s disciplinary process against Fernandez is now closed with the player regarded as having been proactive in apologising in public and in private, and by pre-empting a fine by making a donation to fund anti-racism and anti-discrimination education.

Fernandez says he is sorry and is committed to anti-racism and anti-discrimination.

Sky Sports