Enzo Fernández Under Fire

A Footballer's Misstep and Its Aftermath

When?

July 14, 2024

WHERE?

Miami Gardens, Florida

Stadium

Hard Rock Stadium

WHO?

Enzo Fernandez & Argentina Men's National Team

Issue

After winning the 2024 Copa America, Enzo Fernandez and his Argentinian teammates celebrated with the trophy on the team bus back to Argentina. Enzo decided to go live on his Instagram while they were celebrating. During this a "discriminatory chant" broke out that singled out France players of African heritage. In other words, this chant targeted players stating that these players are not in actuality "real French players". "They play in France but they are all from Angola" was a quote apart of the chant.

What Was Exactly Said?

Listen, spread the word, They play in France but they’re all from Angola, How lovely, they will run, Your mom is Nigerian, your dad is Cameroonian, But on your ID, it says French nationality

Escuchen, corran la bola, juegan en Francia pero son todos de Angola, Que lindo es, van a correr, Tu vieja es nigeriana, tu viejo camerunés, Pero en el documento, nacionalidad francés

December 18, 2022

This match saw Argentina take on France in the 2022 World Cup Final. Tensions must have still been high 2 years after this game took place.

July 16, 2024

France International and Chelsea teammate Wesley Fofana took to Twitter to voice his feelings about the situation. He was the first person of any notoriety to speak out and deemed Enzo Fernandez to be a racist.

July 17, 2024

One day later, Enzo Fernandez posted a public apology on all his social media accounts. He stated that he has remorse for his actions, and that moment does not reflect who he truly is.

Making Amends

A few weeks later, Fofana and the club all spoke prior to the end of the pre-season tour. Enzo was desperate to make amends with his teammates and the club. Fofana stated that he understands it was a mistake on Enzo's part.

Months following the incident, Enzo Fernandez has taken a leadership role at the club. During this time, he found his best form on and off the pitch. He is currently seen as one of the senior figures of the squad, as he is outspoken and takes responsibility for shortcomings of the team. He has seemed to learn from the incident, and focuses on being a better teammate and person.