Chelsea star Noni Madueke offers opinion on Blues facing dressing room problems when Enzo Fernandez returns to club after racism row
Chelsea attacker Noni Madueke refused to reveal what exactly was discussed among the squad about midfielder Enzo Fernandez's racist chants with the Argentina national team. Madueke also stressed that things would be fine upon Fernandez's return to the squad.
Madueke was asked during a press conference about whether Chelsea players had forgiven the midfielder for the vile chants following Argentina's Copa America title win. Pointing out that the discussions should remain private, he said (via Metro):
"That's something that's between us players. Enzo is going to come back and join his team again and everything is going to be fine."
Chelsea captain Reece James was also asked about the incident in a press conference and he stated:
"It was obviously a really difficult situation. I think Enzo acknowledged that he has done wrong and quickly put his hand up to apologise to the club, the team and people offended. He hasn't arrived yet so I don't know if there's anything to amend. I'll have to make that judgement when he comes back in. I hope everyone will be on the same page and we can move forward from the situation."
Enzo Fernandez has apologised for singing the offensive chants. He is yet to return to training and is currently on vacation following Argentina's Copa America win. He is expected to join the Blues in the United States soon.
Chelsea manager spoke about Enzo Fernandez earlier this week
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca was also quizzed about Enzo Fernandez's questionable chants. Maresca claimed that with the player and the club releasing a statement, there was nothing more to add on the case.
He said (via BBC):
"It is quite easy in terms of the player doing a statement to apologise. The club did the same, so I don't think there is something to add in terms of the situation. It is already clear and clarified. In the end, they are all human beings. I don't think there are any bad intentions from any one of them."
He added:
"I don't think when Enzo is back that we will have any kind of problem. The player clarified already the situation, the club did the same. So, there is nothing to add. Once again, I think they are not bad persons or human beings. It can happen but I don't think there are any problems at all."
Chelsea drew their first pre-season game to Wrexham earlier this week. They next face Celtic on July 27.