Enzo Fernandez named as Chelsea captain vs. Man City amid Copa America racism controversy

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has shown his ongoing support to Enzo Fernandez by naming him as captain for their 2024/25 Premier League opener against Manchester City.

The Argentinian international joined up with the Blues squad mid-way through their USA preseason tour following his Copa America title win with Argentina.

However, the aftermath of their final win over Colombia was marred by allegations of racism levelled at the midfielder , including from his own teammate Wesley Fofana.

MORE: All the latest Chelsea news | Premier League schedule for 2024/25 | Latest Premier League top scorer rankings

Argentina celebration controversy: Video chant captured after Copa America final

After Fernandez posted footage of Argentina's celebrations, following their Copa America win, Fofana reposted the video on X with the caption, "Football in 2024: uninhibited racism."

It is claimed in the celebration video, Argentina's players made references to the family heritage of France's players, while alleged homophobic and transphobic slurs are also heard.

Fofana's stance has been supported by the French Football Federation (FFF) who condemned the incident and claimed the recording involved "racially offensive and discriminatory remarks".

Chelsea and the Premier League have launched investigations into the matter with Fernandez's Argentina teammate Alexis Mac Allister insisting the 23-year-old did not act with racist intent.

Fernandez apologised for the incident and Maresca stated there would be no wider issue within the squad.

Why has Enzo Maresca picked Enzo Fernandez as Chelsea captain?

Maresca has opted to keep a 'captains group' for the 2024/25 with Reece James the main captain.

England international James is currently serving a three-game EPL suspension, and recovering from hamstring injury, so Maresca has promoted Fernandez to face City.

"He's one of the captains. He's not the only captain. But he is the captain today", he said ahead of kickoff at Stamford Bridge.

"I can see his teammates, they like him as a player and as a man. All of us sometimes do some mistakes. The important thing is to recognise it and it's finished."

New signings Tosin Adarabioyo, Filip Jorgensen and Pedro Neto are amongst the Chelsea substitutes against City.