Trevoh Chalobah’s call-up to the World Cup means Chelsea now have 13 players competing in this summer’s tournament, but it is another Chelsea defender who might have picked up an injury.
Moises Caicedo, Kendry Paez, Mike Penders, Pedro Neto, Malo Gusto, Reece James, Jorrel Hato, Nicolas Jackson, Mamadou Sarr, Enzo Fernandez, Valentin Barco and Marc Cucurella were all called-up.
START, BENCH, SELL: Marc Cucurella, Reece James and Malo Gusto
Which order are you going with? 🤔
Cucurella has since joined Real Madrid but is still on the books at Chelsea until the summer window opens. Meanwhile, Chalobah has replaced Tino Livramento in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad this week.
But according to reports, a Chelsea player is in danger of becoming unavailable for his country’s next game and if serious enough, possibly the rest of the World Cup. Indeed, he has been spotted limping.
Malo Gusto spotted limping during France training
France secured a 3-1 win in their first game, beating Senegal as Kylian Mbappe notched a brace. Didier Deschamps’ side turned it on the second half after a poor first 45, as they look to retain the trophy.
Nicolas Jackson was impressive, but to no avail. The 3-1 win also saw two Chelsea defenders remain unused substitutes, in Sarr and Gusto. The latter now might be missing for France’s next outing.
In a video posted by BeIN Sports this week, Gusto was spotted limping out of France training. A concern for France, with Jules Kounde one of France’s poorer players during their win against Jackson’s Senegal.
Malo Gusto could well have played his last game for Chelsea
The former Lyon defender has an indifferent relationship with Chelsea fans. Some believe he is a solid right-back that can produce in the final third, scoring against PSG in the Champions League last term.
What is Xabi Alonso’s number one priority as soon as he walks through those doors?🤔
But there are question marks over his attitude at times, and his work rate. This summer, Gusto could leave Chelsea. Enzo Maresca’s Man City have made enquiries to sign Gusto, while his agents are busy at work.
Indeed, Gusto’s representatives are said to be in talks with possible suitors ahead of a Chelsea exit. After already losing Cucurella on the left, Xabi Alonso will be keen to avoid losing Gusto on the right flank.
His departure, though, would not be the end of the world given Reece James’ improving fitness and the potential of Josh Acheampong. Chelsea do need to sell and some would be happy to see Gusto leave.
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