Enzo Fernandez apologizes to Chelsea stars in face-to-face conversations after racism storm in Argentina and Fofana fury

ENZO FERNANDEZ has apologized further to the Chelsea squad after joining them in Atlanta, two weeks after unleashing a storm of racism.

The 23-year-old Argentina international trained and had lunch with his Blues teammates for the first time yesterday, after apologizing in person at the St. Regis hotel in addition to his public statement and private messages.

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A fortnight ago, the club’s record signing player broadcast a video of himself and his Argentina teammates singing a racist and homophobic chant about France’s black players.

France international Wesley Fofana criticized “uninhibited racism”, with the video angering several members of the Chelsea squad.

Fernandez will make a donation to an anti-discrimination charity which Chelsea will match.

Captain Reece James and five-times France international Axel Disasi were in talks with Fernandez before his return to try to calm things down.

James admitted at the start of Chelsea’s American tour that he would not know how much damage had been done to team spirit until the midfielder’s return.

The Blues are yet to confirm whether there will be a result to their internal investigation.

Fernandez is also under investigation by FIFA, which could lead to his suspension if he is referred to the FA.

The video on social media also sparked a diplomatic incident, with ministers fired in Argentina and the French Football Federation filing a legal complaint with FIFA.

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Argentina’s anthem was also booed at the Paris Olympics.

The video, filmed as the Argentine team celebrated their Copa América victory, referenced the African heritage of France’s black players.

Chelsea have six black French players in their squad taking part in the pre-season tour of America.

The Blues were in pre-season action on Saturday night, being beaten 4-1 by Celtic.

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