Filip Jorgensen’s late error will dominate headlines, but Malo Gusto’s defensive struggles and failure to track Marcus Rashford were the real reason Chelsea lost 2-1 to Aston Villa.
Chelsea’s latest Premier League defeat to Aston Villa has put goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen under fire after his costly mistake allowed Marco Asensio to score the winner. However, right-back Malo Gusto had an equally concerning performance, failing to track Rashford for Villa’s opening goal and struggling both offensively and defensively throughout the game.
Despite being given his favored attacking full-back role with Reece James deployed in midfield, Gusto failed to make an impact, with zero successful dribbles, zero accurate crosses, and only two tackles won. His inability to adapt to Enzo Maresca’s tactical setup raises concerns, especially as promising academy talent Josh Acheampong remains sidelined.
With Chelsea facing Southampton next, Maresca has a decision to make—persist with an underperforming Gusto or give Acheampong a chance to prove himself.
Gusto may have Maresca’s backing for now, but another poor performance could force the manager to rethink his options in the right-back position.
