Published: 22:44 EDT, 23 July 2024 | Updated: 22:44 EDT, 23 July 2024
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Enzo Maresca says Enzo Fernandez is due to rejoin the Chelsea squad this Monday after sparking the racism storm which disrupted the club's pre-season preparations.
The new head coach addressed the situation for the first time at his unveiling in Santa Clara, as he insisted it will not be problematic reintegrating the PS106.8million midfielder into his team.
Fernandez had caused chaos after uploading a video to his Instagram showing him and fellow members of the Argentinian national team singing a song described as 'racist and discriminatory' by the French football federation.
The footage was filmed while the players were celebrating their Copa America triumph, and sparked anger inside the Chelsea squad as some even took to social media to condemn the racism on show.
Enzo Maresca responds to questions during a press conference in Santa Clara
Speaking at the Levi's Stadium, where Chelsea will face Wrexham in their first friendly on this tour, Maresca said: 'The player did a statement, apologised, and the club did the same. I don't think there is something to add, the situation is already clear.'
Asked if there will be problems bringing him back into the squad, Maresca said: 'I don't think so, to be honest. At the end, they are all human beings, I don't think there are any bad intentions from any one of them.
'When Enzo is back, I don't think we will have any problems, the player already clarified the situation, and the club did the same. There is nothing to add.
'He is not a bad human being. It can happen, I don't think there are any problems at all. I spoke with Enzo, I spoke with a lot of them. The player has made a statement and apologised, it is clear.'
Reece James also broached the subject as the Chelsea captain said: 'Enzo acknowledged he did wrong and apologised to the club and the team. I have spoken to Enzo and everyone involved but those conversations have to stay in house.'