Malo Gusto’s performances for Chelsea since Enzo Maresca has taken over have not yet shown the quality that he promised from his first season at the club.
Chelsea fans have been unimpressed with Gusto as he looks to learn a new role to suit the current system employed by the club, with inverting into midfield becoming a key part of his game.
This saw an error which led to a goal in the Conference League final against Real Betis, and while the Blues came out winners that day, there were concerns over his individual performance.
Sunday saw Gusto start for France in the Nations League third-place play-off against Germany, with them winning 2-0. Transfer target Mike Maignan starred in goal after his difficult semi-final against Spain.
Malo Gusto stars for France in win vs Germany
French media were very impressed with the player’s performance. Foot Mercato believed his ability to help out in attack was key to his strong display.
They said: “Lined up on the right flank of the defense, Gusto confirmed his good unity. While covering the miles, the player trained at OL often made himself available offensively even if he could have let go of the handbrake to follow through with his ideas and bring real offensive added value.
“Recovering a few balls, he was rigorous defensively and was not necessarily put in danger on his side. A serious match.”
The game was just Gusto’s third for his country, and his first start after making two appearances off the bench.
Gusto sends Enzo Maresca clear message
Gusto has been Enzo Maresca’s pet project this season, with the manager looking to develop the full-back into a player he has never really been.
In 32 Premier League games, he provided just one assist for his teammates. Under Mauricio Pochettino, he contributed six in 27 games.
The manager has been able to get the best out of Marc Cucurella in the attacking third this season, turning him into a regular goalscorer in the important final few months of the campaign.
With Reece James also seeing his role change under the new boss, Gusto will be hoping that his performance for France was proof that there is more to come from him if handed the chance at Stamford Bridge.
