Enzo Maresca explains Enzo Fernandez's return to Chelsea squad after racism row
- Video of Enzo Fernandez and Argentina squad signing discriminatory chant has sparked racism row
- Some Chelsea players publicly called out the midfielder
- Manager Enzo Maresca and captain Reece James have both commented on the situation
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca is confident midfielder Enzo Fernandez will have no issues reintegrating into the squad for their pre-season tour of the United States, as the club continue to investigate allegations of racism.
Fernandez issued an apology after posting a live video of himself and a number of his Argentinian teammate singing a song in the aftermath of their Copa America win that questioned the backgrounds of France's black and mixed heritage players.
Blues defender Wesley Fofana and Ivory Coast international David Datro Fofana were among the players who publicly called out Fernandez. Malo Gusto and Axel Disasi, as well as centre-back Fofana, all unfollowed the 23-year-old on Instagram.
Chelsea have opened disciplinary proceedings against Fernandez and, speaking at a press conference on Tuesday evening, Maresca gave an update on the situation.
"I think it's quite easy in terms of the player did a statement apologising, the club did the same," the Italian said. "I don't think there's something to add in terms of this situation, it's already clear and clarified."
Asked if Fernandez may have issues returning to the squad next week, the former Leicester City boss added: "I don't think so, to be honest.
"In the end they are all human beings. I don't think there is any bad intention from any one of them. So I don't think when Enzo comes back we'll have any kind of problem.
"As I said, the player already clarified the situation, the club did the same, there is nothing to add and once again, I think they are not bad persons or human beings, it can happen, but I don't think it's any problem at all.
"I spoke with Enzo, I spoke with all of them, as I said, the player already did a statement apologising, so it's quite clear."
Club captain Reece James also spoke on the incident, adding: "It's obviously a really difficult situation.
"I think Enzo acknowledged he did wrong and quickly put his hand up and apologised to the club, the team and the 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.
"But I hope everyone will be on the same page and can kind of move forward from this situation.
"I've spoken to Enzo and everyone involved but the conversations have to stay in house."
Chelsea take on Wrexham in the early hours of Wednesday morning before further pre-season clashes with Celtic, Club America, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Inter.
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