‘No problems’ when Fernandez joins Chelsea tour

Date:

Share post:

The midfielder, 23, was accused by the French Football Federation of singing a “racist and discriminatory” chant after Argentina won the Copa America.

The song contains lyrics which question the heritage of France’s black and mixed race players.

Fernandez’s Chelsea team-mate Wesley Fofana, who has one cap for France, posted an image of the video on Instagram, describing it as “uninhibited racism”.

Fifa has started an investigation into the incident, which Fernandez has apologised for.

Maresca said: “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.”

Asked whether there would be an issue within the squad, with Chelsea having seven France players who are black or mixed race, Maresca replied: “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 joined by captain Reece James to preview a match against Wrexham in Santa Clara on Wednesday.

James said he was ready to get involved if there are issues, 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.”

Related articles

Volta Regional vetting committee shortlists 54 candidates for MDCE positions

The Volta Regional Vetting Committee has successfully shortlisted and recommended 54 individuals for the positions of Municipal and...

President of Comoros in Accra to participate in Africa Prosperity Dialogue

President Azali Assoumani of Comoros has arrived in Ghana to participate in the Africa Prosperity Dialogue 2025, currently...

Chairman of Constitution Review Committee reiterates commitment to fulfilling mandate

Professor Henry Kwasi Prempeh, the Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, has reiterated the Committee's commitment to fulfilling...

Man City draw Real & Celtic face Bayern in play-offs

City, the 2023 Champions League winners, will host Madrid at Etihad Stadium on 11 or 12 February before...