The Argentine star has reportedly drawn the ire of his Chelsea teammates after Copa America celebrations
According to reporter Fabrice Hawkins, Chelsea’s contingent of French players are angry with their Argentinian teammate Enzo Fernandez after he filmed post-match celebrations from the Copa America which involved racist chanting about players in the France national team.
Argentina players accused of racist chanting
The controversy began when Fernandez posted a video on Instagram capturing Argentina's celebrations following their 2024 Copa America final victory against Colombia.
In the video, Argentina players were allegedly heard chanting a song that included racially charged remarks about the heritage of French national team players. The lyrics of the chant reportedly stated: “They play for France, but they are from Angola. His mother is Nigerian, his father is Cameroonian. But on the passport: French.”
Chelsea’s French players react to alleged video
This song, perceived as derogatory and insensitive, has sparked significant outrage among Chelsea's French players.
The Blues have a notable group of French players, including Malo Gusto, Lesley Ugochukwu, Christopher Nkunku, Wesley Fofana, Axel Disasi, and Benoit Badiashile.
These players are reportedly upset with Fernandez for filming and sharing the video and the incident has reportedly created tension within the team, as the French players feel disrespected and hurt by the actions of their teammate.
The French Football Federation has referred the incident to FIFA, seeking action against the racially targeted chanting from the Argentinian players.
Despite the formal complaint, the international football governing body has yet to acknowledge or respond to the issue raised by the French football chiefs.