How can Chelsea use both Reece James and Malo Gusto?

With new right back Malo Gusto joining Chelsea in summer 2023 from Lyon, many football fans are wondering ‘how on earth will Chelsea lineup next season?’ The Blues must find an adequate balance between one of the world’s finest right backs in Reece James and rising superstar Malo Gusto.

First off, let me introduce you to our new signing. The past year, the name Malo Gusto has been on many football fanatics youngster’s list. Quick, strong, and great off the ball movements are some attributes that excel. Very similarly to Reece, Gusto can definitely put in a good cross. Rising from the Lyon youth ranks, Gusto made his first senior appearance in a late stoppage time cameo in the 2020/21.  The opening game of the that campaign saw Gusto start, and he quickly advanced to become the club’s starting right back and went on to make well over 50 appearances for his boyhood club.

With Reece James’ injuries becoming a worryingly regular, it’s only natural to add competition. César Azpilicueta’s time is winding down so the signing of Malo Gusto is an extraordinary pick up. Chelsea have got the full back spots secured for the next decade and beyond.

Many people are forgetting how versatile James is: he played in midfield during his loan spell at Wigan Athletic in the 2018/19 season. During his first senior season, James made 45 appearances for the Latics and was named Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year, won Goal of the Season, and was PFA Community Champion. During a great term, he garnered the admiration of the faithful.

The England international also had a fair share of minutes at center back, most specially, right center back, in a back three/five. Here are some options Chelsea Head Coach, Graham Potter, can include both, James and Gusto in the lineup:

Reece James DM/#6-Malo Gusto RB

If Graham Potter continues the current 4-2-3-1 shape, we could possible see James in the midfield pivot and give Gusto the right back keys. ‘RJ’ is comfortable on the ball and rock solid in defence. He can also play in deep crosses if needed and can still play one-two’s with Gusto going on the overlap.

Reece James RCB-Malo Gusto RWB

In the summer of 2022, former Chelsea head coach, Thomas Tuchel has primarily played a three at the back formation where Reece has, time to time, filled in the right center-half slot. With Malo Gusto coming in, will we see the come back of the three/five at the back system? Only time will tell if Gusto is to occupy the RWB spot.

Split minutes at Chelsea?

Another possible method which might possibly be employed, is the two defenders splitting minutes. For example, Reece James starts and can be taken off by the 60th minute mark, and have a refreshed and energetic Gusto off to the races. Alternatively, in the Carabao Cup and the like, they can be used vice versa.

Another reason for the signing is what if James’ injury crisis worsens? It’ll be devastating for the Blues family – but having a player with the quality of Malo Gusto, Chelsea wouldn’t miss James as much as they have done. Competition is necessary to stay at the top, especially playing in many different competitions.

Chelsea had an incredible January window spending so much and avoiding FFP. Many of the signings are quite young with long contracts. And with new Chelsea owner, Todd Boehly, is certainly the right man to further progress the club. The season is still long , and far from over so it’ll be a  fascinating four months. With the league match against Fulham this Friday, and the Champions League tie against Dortmund coming up, It’s all down to Graham Potter after getting the backing he needed.