Former Super Eagles and Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has criticized Enzo Fernandez for participating in racist chants with his Argentina teammates.
Fernandez faced backlash after a derogatory song was sung by his teammates following Argentina’s 2024 Copa America victory over Colombia.
Speaking on his podcast, Mikel expressed his disapproval of such behavior. “This is a very sensitive issue, and everyone has their opinion on it. One thing I can say is that I do not condone such acts as a person or a player,” Mikel stated.
He acknowledged the influence of adrenaline after a significant win but emphasized the need for responsibility.
“Winning the Copa America back-to-back is incredible, but that doesn’t justify this behavior. When you are winning, it’s actually when you need to be more responsible and humble. You need to be aware that everything you do is being watched. This kind of behavior just spoils the entire celebration and all that they have achieved,” he added.
Mikel further noted that it wasn’t just Fernandez who participated in the chants. “It wasn’t only him singing; everyone was involved. It was wrong, and it’s not his place to say these things,”