Chelsea footballer Kenedy sent back to UK amid China controversy

Chelsea FC has confirmed that Brazilian striker Kenedy has been sent back to the UK, and will no longer be part of the club's pre-season tour of Asia, according to Inter Sports. This comes on the heels of a pair of Instagram posts put online by the 21-year old on Friday which have infuriated the online community in China.

Brazilian striker Kenedy [Photo: IC]

One of the posts, written in Portugese, shows a picture of Kenedy with the caption reading "F*** China." The other shows a picture of a sleeping Chinese security guard with the caption: "Wake up China, you idiot."

Posted on Friday ahead of Chelsea's 3-0 victory over Arsenal in the club's stop in Beijing, the online community in China has been relentless in its criticism of the Brazilian, saying his posts are both xenophobic and racist. The young footballer was jeered repeatedly by Chinese fans during Saturday's match.

Both Kenedy and Chelsea FC have issued multiple apologies. "Kenedy is aware of his fault and feels regretful about it," said Chelsea Manager Antonio Conte in a statement issued on Monday.

Chelsea had earlier released similar apologies. "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," said a statement from Chelsea FC on its website.

Despite the apologies, the London Evening Standard is reporting the young Brazilian's time at the club could be numbered.

The article suggests Kenedy is likely to be moved by the club in the coming days to avoid further upsetting fans in China.

21-year old Kenedy returned to Chelsea this year after being loaned out to fellow Premiership side Watford during the previous season.