Chelsea fullback Malo Gusto made a big impression in the Blues’ 3-0 win over Mexican side Club America on Wednesday night.
Head coach Enzo Maresca opted to deploy the Frenchman as an inverted fullback on the left flank and the decision paid off, with the defender excelling when asked to cut in-field and provide an outlet on the ball. Supporters on X were waxing lyrical about Gusto’s performance following the friendly victory in Atlanta, Georgia:
top top player fr
— 🍂 (@tahyooo) August 1, 2024
His link ups , pace , dribbling is so impressive. Such a talent
— OB (@CFC_OBED) August 1, 2024
The most versatile baller I've ever seen
— Ken (@wokwasia_) August 1, 2024
Insane player
— The Blue Co. Project Podcast (@BlueCoProject) August 1, 2024
Dude is just so fantastic
— BABS 🇳🇬 (@Sheriff_Jimmy) August 1, 2024
This guy is so good 😊
— Owolabi olajide (@Owolabiolajid10) August 1, 2024
He’s everywhere!
What a player he is— Dave (@Bewhatyoubejr) August 1, 2024
Unreal player
— Adam (@CarefreeAdz) August 1, 2024
Gusto will play a key role under Maresca
The 21-year-old has thrived when asked to play as a right wingback during his first twelve months at Stamford Bridge but his flexibility was on show in full against Club America.
Maresca asks a lot from his fullbacks on either flank, and you’d think that, if Gusto stays fit, he will get a lot of game time on both wings over the coming season.
Chilwell’s future at Chelsea looks bleak
In stark contrast to Gusto, the club’s vice-captain is seemingly not a key part of the new coach’s plans. Ben Chilwell played just 20 minutes against Club America and that was only because Gusto picked up a knock.
Maresca has already said that it is difficult to find a position for Chilwell, which may suggest that he will be shipped out before the transfer deadline on August 30th.
