French legend Hugo Lloris has strongly criticized the controversial song sung by some Argentina players following their Copa America victory.
The World Cup-winning captain and goalkeeper described the song as a direct attack on the French people and urged the Albiceleste to set a better example for young fans.
What happened?
Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez shared a video on social media showing himself and his teammates singing along to a song that allegedly contains racist and discriminatory language following Argentina’s victory over Columbia in the Copa America tournament.
French football legend Hugo Lloris has strongly criticized the controversial song, emphasizing the importance of being a role model, especially for children.
He said, “When you win, you represent something greater. The song was a direct insult to the French people, particularly those of African descent.”
He added, “Even in times of celebration, winners must uphold a high level of responsibility. Discrimination and racism have no place in football.”
Lloris concluded by hoping that the incident was a mistake and that the Argentina players would learn from it. He stressed the importance of standing together against discrimination in the sport.
Argentinian legend Javier Mascherano defends his compatriot amid racism controversy
Renowned footballer and former Liverpool star, Javier Mascherano, has spoken out in defense of his fellow Argentine, Enzo Fernandez, amidst accusations of racism.
Mascherano, in an interview with Ole, vehemently denied the allegations, stating: “If there is something that we Argentines are not, it is racists, far from it.”
Mascherano went on to emphasize Argentina’s reputation for inclusivity, proclaiming: ”In Argentina, people from all over the world live and we treat them as they should be treated.”
Explaining the context of the controversy, Mascherano pointed out that cultural differences can lead to misunderstandings, particularly during celebrations.
He added, “Enzo also made it known on social media that he was apologizing. Sometimes people try to make things much bigger than they are.”
Argentinian vice-president Victoria Villarruel support Enzo Fernandez
Argentinian vice-president Victoria Villarruel took a stand in support of Enzo and all Argentina players involved in the recent racist chants.
In a social media post, Villarruel called out those who feigned outrage, labeling them as hypocrites.
She expressed her solidarity with Enzo and gratitude towards Lionel Messi, urging her fellow Argentines to stand tall and be proud.
She said: ”No country with a colonial history is going to put us down for a song sung on a field nor for speaking a truth that nobody wants to admit.”
The vice-president also asserted that Argentina has never imposed its ways on others and will not tolerate anyone trying to do the same to them.
‘We never forced our way of life on anyone, nor will we tolerate that someone tries to do the same to us.’
Chelsea players condemn Enzo Fernandez’s racism chant
Fernandez is now facing sanctions from the Premier League, with Chelsea conducting an internal disciplinary procedure.
The song has also been condemned by Fernandez’s Chelsea teammate Wesley Fofana.
Fofana publicly criticized the video and actions of his teammate, prompting several of Chelsea’s French players to unfollow Fernandez on social media.
