Malo Gusto’s position at Chelsea has come under renewed scrutiny following the club’s frustrating 2-2 draw with Hull City at Stamford Bridge.
The French defender has never been regarded as an automatic or untouchable starter at Chelsea, but his development since arriving from Lyon has made him one of the more established young players from the club’s recent recruitment era.
Chelsea signed Gusto in January 2023, with the right-back initially returning to Lyon on loan before joining the Blues permanently later that year. He quickly became an important option at full-back and has since accumulated more than 100 appearances for the club.
However, the 2026/27 campaign has brought a different challenge under new head coach Xabi Alonso. Gusto was among the Chelsea players to attract criticism from supporters during the 2-2 draw against Hull, a match in which Chelsea again struggled to maintain control after taking an early lead.
Morgan Rogers put Chelsea ahead inside seven minutes, but Mohamed Belloumi scored twice before half-time to turn the game around. João Pedro eventually restored parity in the second half, although Chelsea were unable to find a winning goal.
Alonso has repeatedly stressed that Chelsea need greater balance and defensive consistency. After the Hull match, the manager said the team must improve certain aspects of its game to compete more effectively in the Premier League, particularly after allowing opponents back into matches they initially appeared to control.
For Gusto, that could make the competition for defensive positions increasingly important. With Chelsea not involved in European competition this season, there are fewer matches available for rotation, meaning players may have to make the most of their Premier League and domestic-cup opportunities.
The situation does not mean Gusto’s Chelsea career is in immediate danger, but it does underline the pressure on every player to convince Alonso that they fit his tactical plans.
With the season still in its early stages, Gusto will have opportunities to respond on the pitch. His versatility and previous experience at Chelsea give him a strong platform, but regular performances will be crucial as Alonso continues to shape his team.
For now, the focus remains on whether Gusto can establish himself within Alonso’s preferred system and regain the confidence of supporters as Chelsea look to address the defensive problems that have followed them into the new campaign.