John Obi Mikel blasts Enzo Fernandez over racist chants 

By Saheed Afolabi 

Former Nigeria international John Obi Mikel has expressed strong disapproval of Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez’s involvement in racist chants with his Argentina teammates.

The controversy erupted after Argentina’s victory in the 2024 Copa America, where Fernandez was recorded singing derogatory words aimed at France, particularly over their African heritage.

Mikel, reflecting on the incident, emphasized the sensitivity surrounding such issues and criticized the behavior as inappropriate and unbecoming, especially following a major triumph.

He expressed his disappointment that such conduct marred Argentina’s celebration and overshadowed their achievement.

“The whole thing is very sensitive, and it always is when something like this happens. I don’t condone such acts as a person or a player,” Mikel said on the Obi One Podcast.

“Winning the Copa America back-to-back is amazing, but that doesn’t excuse inappropriate behavior. When you’re winning, you need to be responsible and humble. Everything you do is being watched, and such behavior just spoils the celebration and the achievement.”

Mikel also noted that the incident has reportedly caused a rift in the Chelsea dressing room, with many players disapproving of Fernandez’s actions.