Enzo Maresca speaks out on Enzo Fernandez’s return to Chelsea squad after racism scandal - 'Not bad human beings'

Enzo Maresca has discussed Enzo Fernandez's return to the Chelsea squad while the midfielder is subject to an internal disciplinary procedure for alleged racism. The Chelsea manager said he doesn’t foresee any 'problems' with Fernandez’s return for a pre-season tour in the US, while captain Reece James said he was ready to get involved if there were any issues within the squad.

'It's clear and clarified' - Chelsea boss Maresca says time to move on from Fernandez controversy

Video credit: SNTV

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has said he doesn’t foresee any "problems" when Enzo Fernandez joins up with the squad for pre-season.

The midfielder is subject to an internal disciplinary procedure at Chelsea after singing a chant described as "racist and discriminatory" by the French Football Federation.

The incident was filmed and posted online by Fernandez after he won the Copa America with Argentina earlier this month.

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Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana was among those to condemn Fernandez for singing the chant, describing his teammate’s actions as "uninhibited racism".

Fernandez has since apologised for the chant, insisting the video did not "reflect my beliefs or my character".

This has led Maresca to believe that there will be no issues within the squad when Fernandez joins for a pre-season tour in the United States.

Enzo Fernandez of Argentina celebrates with the trophy after the team's victory during the CONMEBOL Copa America 2024 Final match between Argentina and Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium on July 15, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Image credit: Getty Images

"I don't think so," he said. "They are all human beings. I don't think there are any bad intentions from any of them.

"I don't think when Enzo is back that we will have any situations. Enzo clarified the situation, the club the same, so there is nothing to add. They are not bad persons or human beings.

"It can happen but I don't think there are any problems at all. I spoke with Enzo and all of them."

Chelsea captain Reece James also addressed the situation, saying he would get involved if there were any issues within the squad.

"It's a difficult situation and Enzo has acknowledged he was wrong and quickly put his hand up to apologise to the club, team and people offended," James said.

"Enzo hasn't arrived yet. I will have to make that judgement [on whether to get involved] when he does. I hope everyone can move forward with the situation.

"I've spoken to Enzo and everyone involved but the conversations have to stay in house."

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