Enzo Fernandez Gets Support from Argentina President Amid Lionel Messi Apology Confusion

Enzo Fernandez has received backing from key figures in Argentina amid backlash over a racist chant that surfaced from a video he posted after the team's Copa America victory on Sunday.

Despite Argentina's triumph marking their third major title in a row, their celebrations were marred when Fernandez went live on Instagram as the squad sang a chant mocking the French and their population. This incident drew criticism, with Fernandez issuing an apology for the offensive remarks.

While the Chelsea star has faced backlash from his club teammates, he has garnered support from notable figures in Argentina. President Javier Milei retweeted a message defending the chant, suggesting it was truthful, and criticized his sports secretary, Julio Garro, who was rumored to have asked Lionel Messi to apologize—a claim Garro denies but has led to his resignation. Garro stated, "I am very sorry if my comment offended anyone; that was never my intention, and that is why I made my resignation available."

Vice-President Victoria Villarruel also defended Fernandez, asserting that the chant "tells truths they won’t admit" and accusing colonialist countries of hypocrisy. She stated, "No colonialist country is going to intimidate us with a football song or truths they do not want to admit. Stop feigning indignation, hypocrites. Enzo, I'm with you."

Lionel Messi, who was not present on the team bus due to an ankle injury sustained in a previous match, has not been involved in the controversy. Garro, before resigning, had firmly denied claims that he asked Messi to apologize, calling it disrespectful to those who honor Argentina with their sportsmanship and humanity.

Fernandez is currently undergoing a disciplinary review at Stamford Bridge as he readies himself to resume club duties. Upon his return, he will encounter several teammates directly affected by the chant, including Wesley Fofana and Christopher Nkunku.

The full lyrics to the chant are: "Listen, spread the word, they play in France, but they are all from Angola, they are going to run well, they like to sleep with trans people, their mum is Nigerian, their dad is Cameroonian, but on the passport it says: French."

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