‘He is a good person’ – Chelsea coach, players defend Enzo Fernandez after apology

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca have described Enzo Fernandez as “a good person,” after apologizing for his racial row.

The Blues boss and his players, including Levi Colwill insist that the racism controversy involving Fernandez is now a closed matter after his apology.

Fernandez, along with several Argentina players, faced heavy criticism for participating in a racist and discriminatory chant about France after their Copa America victory.

The incident drew significant backlash, particularly from Chelsea’s French players.

Despite the controversy, Fernandez issued both public and private apologies.

Upon joining Chelsea’s pre-season tour in the USA on Monday, Fernandez immediately apologised to his teammates, an apology that was immediately accepted.

Captain Reece James and French defender Axel Disasi played key roles in helping reintegrate Fernandez into the squad.

The midfielder has since trained and dined with his teammates.

In addition to his apologies, Fernandez has pledged a significant donation to an anti-discrimination charity, which Chelsea will match.

Addressing the matter in a press conference on Tuesday, Maresca said, “To be honest, we all feel very comfortable. Enzo is back, he had a chat with all of us to clarify there were no bad intentions.

“The lads all accepted. Since last night, everything was like before; they were together, all laughing – a normal situation.”

Adding to the gaffer’s comment, Colwill said, “Definitely. We’re a team. Everything that happens is between us. We’re looking forward to having a good season.

“All the players understand Enzo is a good person and works well for the team. We move on from there at the moment.”

Both Chelsea and FIFA launched investigations into the chant, which was initially popularized by Argentina fans during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and later adopted by the players.

The chant references the African heritage of many French players, which has been widely condemned as racist.

Chelsea’s Wesley Fofana was among the critics, describing the chant as “uninhibited racism.”

However, with Fernandez’s apologies and commitment to anti-discrimination efforts, the club considers the matter resolved.