Lionel Messi has been branded “selfish” for staying silent on Argentina’s racist song storm, with an ex-Chelsea star condemning the all-time great.

The reigning world champions have successfully defended their Copa America crown in 2024. Talismanic captain Messi picked up an ankle injury in the final of that tournament but got his hands on trophy No.45 at the end of a 1-0 win over Colombia.

Said success sparked wild celebrations, with Enzo Fernandez live streaming among those as certain members of the Argentina squad sang a song about how many players in France’s ranks are of African heritage. The French Football Federation has said that an official complaint will be lodged to FIFA.

World football’s governing body are already investigating the incident, while Enzo – after generating widespread criticism and seeing questions asked of his future at Stamford Bridge – has come out and apologised. Argentina captain Messi is, however, yet to speak on the matter.

Former Chelsea and England striker Carlton Cole believes the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner needs to speak up, as one of the most recognisable and respected figures in the global game, telling talkSPORT: “Argentina have got someone who is renowned as probably the best footballer to ever grace the beautiful game – Lionel Messi. We've got a look at Messi and you say, you know what, Messi come out. We need to hear you. I need you to. You’ve got to speak up about this. Because this is more than Enzo. Messi is the main guy there. He's the captain. He needs to come out and say something about this behaviour. Otherwise, it's just like he doesn't care. He doesn’t care how I feel, he doesn’t care how some of his black teammates he’s had in the past feel. That just shows me that he's selfish. He needs to come out and say something. I condemn him. Simple. I condemn Messi.”

French defender Wesley Fofana, who is of Ivorian descent, posted on social media after seeing Chelsea team-mate Enzo engage in discriminatory behaviour: “Football in 2024: uninhibited racism.” The Premier League outfit have “instigated an internal disciplinary procedure”.