'What the f*** was he thinking?' - Inside Chelsea's dressing-room rift as Enzo Fernandez video leaves pre-season plans in 'total meltdown'

Fernandez was filmed singing an alleged racist song with his Argentina teammates in the team bus during their celebrations after winning the Copa America. This incident has caused significant unrest among the Chelsea squad, with Wesley Fofana labelling the chants as "uninhibited racism."

The fallout from the video has been severe, leading to a division within the team. According to The Sun, up to ten players have reportedly unfollowed or snubbed Fernandez on social media, highlighting the deep rift caused by the incident. Despite Fernandez issuing a public apology, an insider told SunSport that his apology was deemed insufficient by many within the club. One of them even said: "People are saying ‘what the f*** was he thinking?’”

The chant in question allegedly also included derogatory and transphobic references to French star Kylian Mbappe, which has been condemned by many. This has exacerbated the tensions within Chelsea’s diverse squad, further complicating the efforts to restore unity and focus ahead of the new season.

The incident has particularly affected Chelsea's French contingent, which includes Benoit Badiashile, Axel Disasi, Malo Gusto, Malang Sarr, Christopher Nkunku, Lesley Ugochukwu, and Fofana. These players, along with three other non-French teammates, are reportedly upset by the offensive content of the chant. The situation has led to increased tensions and disharmony within the squad.

Striker Nicolas Jackson attempted to mediate the situation by posting a picture of Fernandez greeting a young black Chelsea fan and another of himself holding up Fernandez's shirt. However, this gesture backfired and was later removed. A source close to Jackson explained: “Nicolas had no intention to create controversy or disrespect people. It was a kind gesture to support a team-mate and acted in good faith.”

Both Chelsea and FIFA have taken up the matter and are investigating the controversial video. The club is working to address the issue internally while also cooperating with football’s governing body to resolve the matter. The investigations aim to determine the full context and impact of the video, as well as any potential disciplinary actions that may be necessary.