Enzo Fernandez controversy 'causes Chelsea dressing room rift' with players upset by offensive chant
Enzo Fernandez has caused controversy with the Chelsea star the cause of a dressing room rift
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There is now a dressing room rift at Chelsea in the wake of Enzo Fernandez's chanting controversy over the weekend, reports say.
The Argentina international recently posted a live stream of himself and some Argentina team-mates singing an offensive song referencing to the heritage of France's players.
Fernandez has since apologised, with the former Benfica star taking to Instagram to say: “I want to apologise sincerely for a video posted on my Instagram channel during the national team celebrations.
"The song includes highly offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse for these words.
Enzo Fernandez has caused controversy with the Chelsea star the cause of a dressing room rift
“I stand against discrimination in all forms and apologise for getting caught up in the euphoria of our Copa America celebrations.
"That video, that moment, those words, do not reflect my beliefs or my character.
"I am truly sorry.”
According to The Sun, however, there is now a rift within the Chelsea dressing room following the midfielder's controversial antics.
Many of his team-mates are unhappy and his apology 'isn't enough' to win them back round.
Chelsea have a big French contingent in their squad. Benoit Badiashile, Axel Disasi, Malo Gusto, Malang Sarr, Christopher Nkunku, Lesley Ugochukwu and Wesley Fofana are just some of the stars on the books at Stamford Bridge.
The report says those players, as well as three other non-French individuals, are 'upset' over the incident.
Chelsea and FIFA have launched investigations into the affair, with the Blues saying they would be using the case to 'educate' their players.
“Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour completely unacceptable,” they said.
“We are proud to be a diverse, inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities and identities feel welcome.
“We acknowledge and appreciate our player’s public apology and will use this as an opportunity to educate.
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"The club has instigated an internal disciplinary procedure.”
Fofana, meanwhile, recently blasted Fernandez on social media. Posting a clip of his colleague chanting, he wrote: “Football in 2024: uninhibited racism.”
Enzo Fernandez joined Chelsea back in the summer transfer window of 2023
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Fernandez cost a huge £107million upon moving to Chelsea back in January 2023, making him the most expensive signing in their entire history.
The Blues currently look unlikely to sell the player and will be hoping to shine under new manager Enzo Maresca next season.
Fernandez is yet to win a trophy at Stamford Bridge and played a key role as Chelsea finished sixth in the Premier League table under Mauricio Pochettino last term.