Chelsea
have issued an apology after midfielder Kenedy made negative comments about
China on social media.
The 21-year-old posted two images on Instagram which attracted criticism
from the club's Chinese supporters and caused him to be jeered during
Saturday's 3-0 win over Arsenal.
Kenedy has since apologised and Chelsea have followed suit, confirming the
Brazilian has been disciplined for his actions.
A statement from Chelsea said: "On July 22nd, Chelsea Football Club
experienced the warmth and friendliness of Chinese fans at the National
Stadium. However, we were surprised and disappointed that one day prior to
the match, one of our young players, Kenedy, posted messages on his social
media account that caused great offence and hurt the feelings of the people
of China.
"Unfortunately, even though he quickly deleted the messages and apologised,
and the club also apologised via our Chinese social media channels, the
damage had already been done. Chelsea Football Club once again solemnly and
sincerely apologises.
"Kenedy's actions were a mistake that he will learn greatly from. His
behaviour does not represent the entire team and does not align with the
club's high expectations and strict requirements of its young players. He
has been strongly reprimanded and disciplined.
"Everyone at Chelsea Football Club has the utmost respect and admiration for
China and loves our Chinese fans. It is because of this that the negative
impact we have seen over the last two days has left us shocked and saddened.
Once again, we sincerely apologise for the hurt caused to our Chinese fans
as well as to the Chinese people.
"The match was a great cultural exchange event between China and Britain and
the club is extremely grateful to China for its hospitality, which has
brought us closer together in friendship. We very much hope to build on our
strong relationship with our Chinese fans and friends, joining hands firmly
with China in future for further cooperation.
"We offer this apology with utmost sincerity. We have listened carefully to
the criticism and will use the lessons learnt over the last two days to
improve our processes in future."
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