- Mikel Obi has sent a crucial message to Enzo Fernandez, who will play in the Premier League next season
- Fernandez was caught in a racism scandal while celebrating the 2024 Copa America title with Argentina
- Several players of African descent in the Chelsea squad were upset, with some going so far as to unfollow the Argentine's social media accounts
Chelsea legend John Mikel Obi has sent a vital message to impressive Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez ahead of the coming season.
Fernandez was enmeshed in a racist controversy following a video he posted on Instagram from the team bus after winning the Copa America with Argentina.
The 23-year-old, along with some of his teammates, sang what was described as a derogatory song that mocked the heritage of the French team.
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Players of African descent were called out in the chants, which sparked anger among some Chelsea players who decided to unfollow Argentina's social media handles.
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Soccernet reports that Fernandez has since publicly apologised, saying it does not “reflect my beliefs or my character.”
Premier League club Chelsea announced the player's signing in a deal worth £106.8 million after a final agreement with Benfica was sealed.
Mikel disclosed that although the euphoria of the victory might have taken over that moment, he insisted that Enzo was wrong.
The former Nigerian international said on Obi One Podcast:
“It’s a type of behaviour I won’t condone. These players have different stories; you can’t make fun of them until you understand that.
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"None of them chose to be in this situation, and I get that you want to make fun of them, but it is not right.“The only way he can settle this is by ensuring the team starts winning. If you start winning, it changes everything because of the celebration and the hugs."Mikel reacts to Guardiola rumours
Legit.ng earlier reported that Mikel Obi has weighed in on the rumours surrounding Pep Guardiola's possible appointment as England's national team manager.
The Three Lions coaching position became vacant after the 2024 European Championship final, with Gareth Southgate stepping down following England's 2-1 defeat to Spain.
With Southgate's departure, the English FA is now on the hunt for his replacement.
Source: Legit.ng
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