The aftermath of Argentina’s Copa América 2024 victory continues to be marred by controversy surrounding racist chants during the team’s celebrations. Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández, who posted a video containing the offensive content on social media, now faces a potential 10-game suspension. This severe punishment could sideline him for a significant portion of Argentina’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, forcing the team to adjust its lineup until potentially the 16th round of qualifiers.Teammate Rodrigo De Paul has come to Fernández’s defense, describing the controversial song as ‘a bit of folklore’ and insisting that Fernández didn’t intend to offend anyone. De Paul also revealed that team captain Lionel Messi had attempted to discourage such behavior, telling the team ‘no digas esto’ (don’t say that) during the celebrations. This insight into Messi’s leadership contrasts with earlier demands for an apology from the captain, which led to the dismissal of Undersecretary for Sports Julio Garro.The incident has drawn international criticism, with former French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris expressing his disappointment to BBC Sport. Lloris emphasized the responsibility of players to be role models, particularly as champions, and described the chants as an attack on French people, especially those of African origin.Meanwhile, domestic football has resumed in Argentina with the return of the Liga Profesional. Notably, Sebastián Villa made his comeback to Argentine football after serving a ban for gender violence, providing an assist in Independiente Rivadavia’s 1-0 victory over Gimnasia. The match was briefly interrupted due to pitch invasion by fans, highlighting ongoing security concerns in Argentine football.
Key points
- Enzo Fernández faces potential 10-game suspension for involvement in racist chants.
- Rodrigo De Paul defends the controversial chants as misunderstood folklore.
- Lionel Messi attempted to discourage the offensive behavior during celebrations.
- Former French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris criticizes Argentine team’s actions.
- Sebastián Villa returns to Argentine football after serving a ban for gender violence.
Contradictions👾While Rodrigo De Paul defends the chants as folklore, Hugo Lloris views them as an attack on French people of African origin.
👾Despite Lionel Messi’s reported attempts to discourage the offensive behavior, there were earlier demands for him to apologize.
