The reigning world champions successfully defended their Copa América crown in 2024. Captain Leo Messi injured his ankle in the final of that tournament but got his hands on trophy No. 45 in a 1-0 win over Colombia.
The success sparked wild celebrations, including an Enzo Fernandez antics live on air, as some members of the Argentina team sang a song about the number of players of African origin in France’s ranks. The French Football Federation has said a formal complaint will be filed with FIFA.
Messi very silent
World football’s governing body is already investigating the incident, while Enzo – after attracting widespread criticism and seeing his future at Stamford Bridge called into question – has apologised. Argentina captain Messi has yet to comment on the matter.
Former Chelsea and England striker Carlton Cole believes the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner needs to speak out as he is one of the most recognised and respected figures in world football. He told talkSPORT: ” Argentina has someone who is recognized as probably the greatest footballer to ever grace the beautiful game – Lionel Messi…. Messi get out there. We need to hear from you. I need you. You need to speak up. Because this is more than Enzo. Messi is the man. He is the captain. He needs to come out and say something about this behavior. Otherwise, it’s like he doesn’t care. He doesn’t care how I feel, he doesn’t care how some of his black teammates that he’s had in the past feel. That shows me he’s selfish. He needs to come out and say something. I condemn him. Simple. I condemn Messi.”
French defender Wesley Fofana, who is of Ivorian origin, posted a message on social media after seeing his Chelsea team-mate Enzo engage in discriminatory behaviour: ” Football in 2024: racism without complexes ». The Premier League club has “initiated internal disciplinary proceedings.”
