What will happen to Enzo Fernandez after racist chant? Sports lawyer explains

• Enzo Fernandez could face a lengthy ban on the back of engaging in what appears to be a racist and discriminatory chant
• The 23-year-old shared a video on social media where he was seen using racial slurs after Argentina's Copa America success
• According to a sports lawyer, Enzo's punishment would range from a fine and ban as Chelsea and FIFA open investigations on the case

Embattled Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez could face a 12-match ban following his involvement in a racist chant, according to a sports lawyer.

Fernandez posted what appears to be a racial-themed video hours after Argentina's Copa America triumph over Colombia, which has sparked significant backlash from various football stakeholders.

Enzo Fernandez could face a 12-match ban following his racist chant after Argentina's Copa America victory. Photos by South Florida Sun Sentinel and Gustavo Pagano.
Source: UGC

The footage showed the Chelsea star and his Argentine teammates singing a song that the French Football Federation (FFF) branded as "abusive" and "discriminatory."

Despite issuing an apology on social media, the controversy has caused unrest among his Chelsea colleagues.

French defender Wesley Fofana has labelled the chant as "unabashed racism," and David Datro Fofana has also condemned the video.

The Premier League club has since initiated disciplinary proceedings against their most expensive signing, Sky News reports.

Potential punishments Enzo Fernandez could face

Fernandez might face a lengthy suspension as one of the possible punishments.

In an interview with iNews via Givemesport, former Fulham midfielder and now sports lawyer Udo Onwere suggested that despite Enzo's unacceptable behaviour, Chelsea will likely focus on financial implications.

"They'll support him but condemn what he’s done, in the same way Liverpool acted with Luis Suarez years ago, because of the value of the player. "In professional football, you try and make sure that the action is condemned, but you keep the player active."

The 52-year-old also suggested that if the FA chooses to get involved, it becomes more likely that Fernandez could be handed a ban.

Enzo Fernandez speaks after racist backlash

In a related article, Legit.ng reported that Fernandez broke his silence on the whole saga and apologised for the viral video that captured him and the Argentina squad singing a racist chant after their Copa America victory.

The viral video earned the former Benfica midfielder a global condemnation, and his Chelsea teammate, a French international, Wesley Fofana, also joined the fans in criticising the Argentine.

Chelsea are reportedly investigating the video posted by Fernandez after the French Football Federation released an official statement claiming the song included a "racist and discriminatory" chant.

Source: YEN.com.gh