Fernandez Returns to Chelsea, Apologizes to Teammates

Fernandez Returns to Chelsea, Apologizes to Teammates

Enzo Fernandez has apologised to his Chelsea teammates after joining the group in the United States, following the racism controversy surrounding the midfielder.

Fernandez has been at the focus of a racist controversy this month after posting an Instagram video allegedly showing him and his Argentina teammates engaged in a nasty chant about the France national team during Copa America celebrations.

Chelsea centerback Wesley Fofana called it as "uninhibited racism," and while FIFA's investigation into the event is ongoing, Chelsea's internal disciplinary process has been completed.

Enzo Fernandez has publicly apologised for posting a video of the Argentina squad that the French Football Federation claims contain alleged 'racist and discriminatory' chants.

Fernandez joined the Chelsea squad at Atalanta on Monday and promptly apologised to his teammates, which was understood to be accepted.

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

The Argentina international has informed Chelsea that he will be making a big contribution to an anti-discrimination foundation, with Chelsea matching his commitment, and discussions are currently underway to determine the appropriate location to donate the monies.

Chelsea began disciplinary proceedings against Fernandez two weeks ago after he shared a video on social media that the French Football Federation claimed contained a racist song targeting France's black players.

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

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

Chelsea's disciplinary process against Fernandez is now complete, with the player considered as proactive in apologising in public and private, as well as avoiding a fine by donating to anti-racism and anti-discrimination education.

Fernandez apologises and pledges his support for anti-racism and anti-discrimination efforts.

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