Malo Gusto is an extremely capable right-back, but he is second-choice to Chelsea’s captain Reece James.
Chelsea have worked over the last couple of windows to have two strong options for each position, but that hasn’t been an issue at right-back for a few years now.
Malo Gusto came to Stamford Bridge for that purpose in 2023, and has had his fair share of opportunities with Reece James’ injury struggles.
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But since returning, James has been immense for Enzo Maresca. He looks almost back to his best and will certainly be back under consideration for England. Thomas Tuchel has already guided him to one trophy.
But the Englishman’s resurgence isn’t going to help Gusto’s case for minutes, and the Brazilian was asked how he feels about his teammate coming back into the fray.
Malo Gusto heaps praise on Reece James
Ahead of Saturday’s huge Liverpool clash, Gusto sat down for an interview with Stadium Astro to discuss the season so far, and how it feels to be back in competition with James.
Gusto’s response was unfazed, and suggests the two can co-exist without issue.
He said: “Yeah, it’s important to learn from the top players. We try to help the team as much as possible. When I’m on the pitch, when he’s on the pitch, when sometimes we’re both on the pitch, we try to help the team, and he’s a top guy.
“We talk a lot, between each other to give some advice and stuff sometimes. But yeah, I think we are both top players and I think top players have to play and show their best and that’s what we try to do.”
It sounds like things are quite amicable despite stiff competition. Gusto is in the unfortunate position of playing behind one of the best — if not the best — right-backs in the league, but he seems to relish the challenge.
Gusto is becoming underrated
None of the regulars for Chelsea have been overly effective to start the season, but it seems like Gusto is getting the brunt of the criticism at times.
This is the best creative defender at the club, statistically. When he gets a chance to play for the Blues, he takes it more often than not.
James should be the number-one option for Maresca at right-back, but with how many games Chelsea have and James’ chequered past in terms of staying healthy, Gusto will get more opportunities.
From what he has said, he backs himself as a top player just like his teammate, and he will be eager to seize the minutes that come his way.
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