Video Controversy Strengthened My Bond with Teammates – Fernandez

Enzo Fernandez Reflects on Team Dynamics

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has expressed that his recent experiences with the backlash from a controversial video have ultimately enhanced his relationships with his teammates.

Fernandez, 24, made headlines after he shared a clip of him and his Argentina colleagues singing offensive songs following their Copa America victory last year. The video sparked significant criticism, including remarks from Chelsea player Wesley Fofana, who characterized the content as “uninhibited racism.”

Fofana later accepted Fernandez’s apology.

The incident prompted Fernandez, who transferred from Benfica for a record fee of £106.8m in January 2023, to issue both private and public apologies to his teammates.

In his first candid discussion about the situation with GiveMeSport, he remarked, “The situation surrounding the accusations was not representative of my character.”

Fernandez’s Apologies and Team Support

Following the backlash, Fernandez decided to alter his holiday plans and confronted his teammates in person during their pre-season tour in the United States. It was during this time that he reiterated his remorse through a written statement.

When asked if the ordeal strengthened his bond with the Chelsea squad, he confidently responded, “Yes, absolutely.” He continued, “It was a challenging period, but my teammates were understanding.”

He explained, “This event occurred during a euphoric moment where I never intended to offend anyone. It was a traditional song from Argentina, part of our ‘football folklore.’ I wanted to demonstrate to the squad that I don’t harbor discriminatory beliefs, and they grasped that message.

The controversy drew attention from the French Football Federation (FFF), which lodged a complaint with FIFA, deeming the video “racist and discriminatory” as it targeted the heritage of certain players. However, there were no repercussions from the Premier League, Football Association, or UEFA, since the matter was under the jurisdiction of the South American governing body, CONMEBOL, due to it being associated with international play.

Kick It Out, an organization focused on anti-discrimination, raised concerns with FIFA regarding the lack of action taken against Fernandez.