Chelsea release statement after Arsenal match as Wesley Fofana exposes racist abuse

Chelsea have condemned racial abuse sent to defender Wesley Fofana after Sunday's 1-0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. Fofana played 85 minutes in north London after his return to the Chelsea starting XI last week.

On Monday afternoon Fofana posted images of comments left on his Instagram account targeting him for his skin colour. He highlighted direct messages also sent to him online in the wake of the defeat. He released images and screenshots of the messages he received.

A statement from Chelsea in response says: "Chelsea Football Club is appalled and disgusted by the recent rise in online racial abuse towards our players. The abuse Wes Fofana has been subjected to following yesterday’s fixture is abhorrent and will not be tolerated.

"Wes and all our players have our full support. We will work with the relevant authorities in identifying the perpetrators and take the strongest possible action."

Fofana himself has posted again online with a message of his own. "2025, stupidity and cruelty no longer hide...It's not just football, it's not just a "game" when some believe that their skin color makes them superior to others. It's time for things to change, for platforms to take action, and for everyone to take responsibility."

Fofana was involved in several flashpoints throughout the match, appearing to stamp on Declan Rice in the first half. He escaped a booking from referee Chris Kavanagh until later on after he delayed the restart in play for Arsenal, throwing the ball away after another incident with Rice.

Chelsea say they are now working to remove the messages and are involved with other social media sites to stamp out the abuse. Fofana has been supported by his teammates and other club staff, and they are committed to addressing the issue and will work closely with authorities in order to eradicate it.

Last summer Fofana called out chants being sung by some members Argentina national team - including Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez - which included racial slurs. He wrote on Instagram at the time: "Football in 2024: uninhibited racism". Chelsea and Fernandez spoke to Fofana at the time, apologising.

Chelsea were beaten by Arsenal thanks to Mikel Merino's early header. The result leaves Enzo Maresca's side in fourth in the Premier League table but Newcastle United could leapfrog them and have a game in hand.

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