Barcelona defender Jules Kounde reacts to Argentina stars aiming racist chants at France after Copa America success
Barcelona defender Jules Kounde has reacted to Argentina stars aiming racist chants at France during their Copa America 2024 celebration. Videos percolated on social media showing Argentine players signing a song about their rivalry with France.
The song seemingly questioned the origin of French players and suggested that most of them are of African background. Enzo Fernandez has especially faced wrath for the incident.
Several of his Chelsea teammates, like Wesley Fofana, Axel Disasi, and Malo Gusto have reportedly unfollowed him on Instagram. Barcelona defender Jules Kounde has now reacted to the video on social media. Kounde wrote:
"Lamentable...."
Racism in football is always to be protested against. The latest incident comes soon after Wolverhampton Wonderers forward Hwang Hee-Chan faced racist comments from fans during a pre-season friendly.
Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez apologizes after racist song about France
Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez issued a long statement on Instagram, claiming that the song didn't reflect his character. Fernandez acknowledged the offensive language of the song and apologized for taking part in it.
Fernandez's statement read (via GOAL):
"That video, that moment, those words, do not reflect my beliefs or my character. I am truly sorry."
Enzo Fernandez, however, has also seen his Chelsea teammates react by reportedly unfollowing him. They'd have to resolve the matter soon as the international break is now over and Fernandez would join the team's pre-season camp.
The incident, meanwhile, took place following La Albiceleste's 1-0 win against Colombia in the Copa America final. Lionel Scaloni's team won the game courtesy of Lautaro Martinez's 112th-minute strike.
Argentina are on a stellar run on the international stage at the moment. Having won the 2021 Copa America, 2022 Finalissima, and 2022 FIFA World Cup, they have now won the 2024 Copa America in the United States. However, their celebration following the latest triumph has drawn widespread criticism.