Reece James admits there could be a 'problem' in Chelsea dressing room after Enzo Fernandez's racist singing
Chelsea captain Reece James has once again weighed in on Enzo Fernandez's racist chant video. The England international has admitted Fernandez's behavior may have caused a potential problem in the Stamford Bridge dressing room.
After Argentina's 2024 Copa America triumph, Fernandez and his teammates were seen on tape singing a racist chant about the France national team that originated at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The 23-year-old posted the video of La Albiceleste's celebrations on Instagram.
Fernandez has been lambasted for his actions by many, including some of his Chelsea teammates. The Argentine midfielder has since apologized publicly for his behavior.
Chelsea captain Reece James has offered his two cents on the matter, revealing that he spoke to Fernandez and his aggrieved club teammates. In a recent interview with ESPN, James said:
“Of course. There’s always the factor where it doesn’t sit right with people when there could be a problem. But until the day comes where everyone’s together and in a room together, I don’t know, but I hope things can be resolved smoothly and we can move forward with the season.”
He added:
“I spoke to him a bit, but it was hard because we were on different time zones. Just a general chat really. His views on what happened and him trying to explain his situation and how things happened."
Fernandez has registered 62 appearances for Chelsea, recording seven goals and five assists.
Reece James opens up about new position after Chelsea's friendly against
Reece James has opened up about playing in his new position under Enzo Maresca in Chelsea's friendly against League 1 side Wrexham FC.
The Blues drew 2-2 against Wrexham on Wednesday (25 July), a fixture that saw Christopher Nkunku and Lesley Ugochukwu get on the scoresheet. James was deployed as an inverted right-back by Maresca, playing in the middle of the pitch.
The England international feels the position is not too unfamiliar, having played in that position during his academy days. During the aforementioned interview with ESPN, James said:
"I played midfield before when I was younger and then when I was on loan I played midfield as well. So it's quite similar to that. It's quite clear. Usually one of the defenders come inside into the middle and we play from there pretty much.
"The role this season will be a lot different for many players so trying to understand the role as early as possible will help the team the most."