The three biggest losers from Chelsea’s shock defeat to Fulham have already become clear

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Chelsea’s 2024/25 season has mainly been filled with highs so far, but the supporters watched a rare off-day on Boxing Day.

The Blues were beaten 2-1 at home to Fulham in the Premier League, conceding a 95th-minute winner to Rodrigo Muniz.

Enzo Maresca didn’t dwell on Chelsea’s defeat to Fulham as his side quickly turns their attention towards Monday’s trip to Ipswich Town.

But as we reflect on the team’s shock third league defeat of the season, here is a look at the three biggest losers from the West London derby disappointment…

Jadon Sancho goes quiet for Chelsea

Jadon Sancho, 24, played the full 90 minutes in the festive defeat to Fulham. However, he was unable to make his mark on the game, so the pressure on his starting position should only increase.

The English attacker has now gone three consecutive league matches without a goal or assist, despite playing every minute in each of them.

In general, Sancho’s been a brilliant addition to the Blues squad since he joined in the summer on loan from Manchester United with an obligation to buy. The competition for places means that he’s got to consistently maintain his high levels to stay in the XI, though.

Sancho created zero chances in Chelsea’s defeat to Fulham as he struggled to influence the contest.

The winger’s at his best when he’s direct and linking with teammates, so the Ipswich game next Monday feels like a big one for him if he keeps his starting position.

Malo Gusto struggles continue

With Reece James still sidelined, Malo Gusto is still the club’s first-choice option at right-back.

The 21-year-old defender enjoyed a brilliant debut season with Chelsea last year, but there’s been too many dodgy performances creeping into his game this term. Unfortunately, he struggled again with several parts of his game versus Fulham.

Fulham attacked heavily down their left side with Antonee Robinson and Alex Iwobi, which is a big strength of their game.

It’s noticeable from watching Gusto that he’s not defending with the some aggression or purpose as last season. There were too many times that he failed to get close enough to the Fulham threat yesterday.

Chelea may internally be happy with Gusto and his development with the club, but his performances have become a lot less reliable under Maresca.

Joao Felix overlooked again

The fact that Joao Felix was an unused substitute during Chelsea’s defeat to Fulham is very worrying for him. It’s looking more and more like he’s quite far down the pecking order this season.

Even though Chelsea were in need of a desperate boost against their local rivals, Felix remained firmly in his seat against Fulham.

The 25-year-old attacker has watched from the bench in the last two consecutive Premier League games, and what’s worse, he’s got the individual ability to potentially make a positive impact in the Everton draw and Fulham loss.

Chelsea supporters called for Felix to start against Fulham, but they didn’t even get to see him on the pitch.

While it’s understandable that Felix isn’t getting league minutes in the No 10 role when Cole Palmer is around, it’s becoming bizarre that the versatile attacker is being completely overlooked.