Malo Gusto Poised to Challenge Reece James for Starting Right-Back Position at Chelsea

The competition for the right-back position in Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea squad promises to be intense between Malo Gusto and Reece James.

While many of Chelsea’s recent signings under Todd Boehly have struggled to make their mark, Malo Gusto has been an exception.

The 21-year-old, who arrived from Lyon last summer after agreeing to the move in January 2023, has quickly established himself as a key player. Initially brought in to provide cover and competition for Reece James, Gusto ended up becoming the first-choice right-back due to James’ injury struggles.

Gusto’s consistent and impressive performances throughout a turbulent season for Chelsea highlighted his potential and established him as a crucial player. Under Mauricio Pochettino, he was a regular starter, and now, with Enzo Maresca at the helm, the battle for the right-back spot is heating up.

Reece James, who only made 11 appearances last season, has returned to training at Chelsea’s Cobham base, eager to reclaim his place and rediscover the form that once made him a mainstay in Gareth Southgate’s England team. However, this task is far from straightforward. Gusto’s performances have made him nearly undroppable, presenting Maresca with a significant selection dilemma.

James’ challenge is compounded by his four-game suspension, which extends into the new season due to a red card received in the penultimate game against Brighton & Hove Albion. This suspension rules him out of Chelsea’s first three league fixtures against Manchester City, Wolves, and Crystal Palace.

This situation provides Gusto with a crucial opportunity to solidify his place in the starting XI. With a full season of Premier League experience under his belt, Gusto is likely to be even better prepared for the upcoming season. His performance in the opening games could set the tone for his continued presence in the lineup, even after James’ return.

Enzo Maresca faces a welcome challenge with two high-quality options for the right-back position. This internal competition will benefit Chelsea as they aim to regain their former glory. As pre-season preparations continue, the battle between Gusto and James will be one to watch, promising to elevate the team’s overall performance.