There’s plenty to be positive about as Chelsea beat Djurgarden on Thursday night to book their spot in another European final, but Blues supporters did find one negative after watching one player’s performance.
Chelsea will face Real Betis later in May in the Conference League final after easing past Djurgarden in the semi-finals.
The Blues followed up a 4-1 away victory against Djurgarden in the first leg with a 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge in Thursday’s second leg.
In the Chelsea player ratings versus Djurgarden, many individuals scored highly after some impressive displays. In particular, 16-year-old prospect Reggie Walsh caught the eye during his first start at senior level.
Chelsea fans claim Malo Gusto has regressed badly
Unfortunately, a selection of Chelsea supporters on social media weren’t impressed by the contribution of Malo Gusto against Djurgarden.
The 21-year-old right-back enjoyed a superb debut season at Stamford Bridge last year, but it’s been a lot tougher for him this term under Enzo Maresca’s management.
Here are Blues fans on X claiming that the French defender has significantly dropped off.
One fan wrote: “Every single time Malo Gusto is on the ball it worries me. What happened to Malo Gusto?”
“What happened to Malo Gusto? He was so good for most of last season,” another posted.
One supporter said: “What happened to Gusto? I can’t understand how a young player can lose all his footballing sense in two years.”
“Exactly what happened to Malo Gusto? He used to be a lot better than this,” another claimed.
In fairness, Gusto was up and down the right flank with incredible energy against Djurgarden. We agree that he’s lost a bit of purpose and quality on the ball this season, though.
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes played |
| 2024/25 | 37 | 0 | 2 | 2,224 |
| 2023/24 | 37 | 0 | 9 | 2,475 |
The fact that Maresca has used Gusto at right-back, left-back and midfield across this season definitely hasn’t helped the youngster find a rhythm in his game.
Enzo Maresca is pleased with Malo Gusto and his contribution this season, but supporters know he’s capable of performing at a much higher level after seeing him shine under Mauricio Pochettino.
Chelsea could give Malo Gusto new contract
Despite the criticism from the Chelsea fanbase, Gusto appears to have the support of the club’s hierarchy.
In April, journalist Graeme Bailey exclusively told The Chelsea Chronicle that Malo Gusto could soon be offered a new Chelsea contract because he’s deemed a ‘huge part’ of the squad.
At the age of 21, Gusto has so much time on his side to bounce back from a tricky second year in English football. It’s worth adding that he’s already tied down tie a long-term contract with the Blues that doesn’t expire until 2030, too.
With the emergence of youngster Josh Acheampong in Chelsea’s defence, Gusto needs to quickly regain some form and confidence.
