Wesley Fofana has publicly defended his Chelsea teammate Enzo Fernandez, asserting that the midfielder is not racist but must learn from his recent actions. Fernandez stirred controversy when he went live on Instagram, chanting a song with racist and homophobic language about French players on the Argentine team bus following their Copa America victory.
The incident upset Chelsea’s black French players, leading Fofana to post a clip of the video with the caption “football in 2024: uninhibited racism.” Despite this, Fofana insists Fernandez isn’t a racist.
Fernandez issued a public apology on social media and privately apologized to his teammates, though he was unable to meet them face-to-face until this week due to his holiday post-Copa America. Upon joining Chelsea’s pre-season tour in America, clear-the-air talks were held within the squad, and the matter is now considered closed internally, though FIFA is reportedly still investigating.
Fofana, speaking publicly about the incident for the first time, explained, “We talked together, I explained why I didn’t like the video and he (Fernandez) explained, he said sorry because he did not want to hurt French fans or anyone, he did not understand when singing it. I trust him because I know him. I know he is not racist. The act I felt a little bit upset. But now, it is done. It is finished.”
Fofana also emphasized the importance of this incident as a learning experience for Fernandez. “Enzo is a big player in Argentina. I hope this has educated him a bit, because for sure, it is a different culture. For sure, I know Enzo (from being at Chelsea together since January 2023). He is not racist. It is just the video is bad. It’s not only Enzo. It’s the Argentinian team. But now it is done. I’m happy with this situation. He said sorry, I trust him and that is the most important thing.”
In conclusion, Fofana’s statements aim to mend team relations and highlight the need for cultural sensitivity and education in football.
