Last updated on February 18, 2025
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The duo has been unable to thrive in their new roles.
Image credit: Univers Chelsea
Chelsea’s struggles under Enzo Maresca continue, with back-to-back defeats against Brighton highlighting persistent tactical issues.
As pressure mounts, three key players find themselves under immediate threat due to Maresca’s system and approach.
1. Malo Gusto – Struggling in an Unnatural Role
Once a dynamic right-back under Mauricio Pochettino, Malo Gusto has found himself in an uncomfortable tactical role under Maresca.
Rather than operating as a traditional full-back, he is being pushed into central areas, where he has struggled to impact games.
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This shift has limited his attacking output—evident in his declining assist numbers—and left Chelsea vulnerable defensively.
Opponents are now actively targeting him, recognizing that he poses little threat in possession.
If Maresca persists with this setup, Gusto’s role in the team may be questioned.
Chelsea’s right-back position demands an effective balance of attack and defense, and so far, the Frenchman has been unable to thrive in his new responsibilities.
2. Marc Cucurella – More Burden Than Benefit
Cucurella has also been affected by Maresca’s preference for inverted full-backs.
Unlike his Brighton days, where he excelled in overlapping and linking up with wingers, he is now tasked with drifting inside to support midfield build-up.
I want to see that second half of last season’s version of Cucurella that transformed our season. pic.twitter.com/PPnu5otcke
— Vince™ (@Blue_Footy) February 12, 2025
While he occasionally recycles possession well, his limited attacking creativity has made Chelsea’s left flank predictable.
Recent performances suggest that his role is restricting the team’s overall flow. Against West Ham, his positioning clashed with Cole Palmer’s deeper movements, stalling Chelsea’s attacking momentum.
If Maresca refuses to adapt, Cucurella risks becoming a weak link rather than an asset.
3. Reece James – Fitness Concerns and Tactical Uncertainty
A long-standing injury battle has already made Reece James’ position uncertain, but Maresca’s tactical experiments have further complicated his role.
Against Brighton, James was deployed almost as a central midfielder when he came off the bench, minimizing his best attributes—crossing, overlapping runs, and defensive reliability.
Although James has experience in a central defensive role from his Wigan days, Chelsea’s current setup does not seem to get the best out of him.
Given his injury history, Maresca may need to rethink his approach rather than forcing him into roles that do not maximize his strengths.
What’s Next for Chelsea?
Chelsea’s struggles are not just about individual performances but also about a tactical setup that appears to be working against the team rather than for it.
If Maresca wants to turn things around, he must rethink his use of full-backs and midfield structure.
Otherwise, players like Gusto, Cucurella, and James may find themselves sidelined as Chelsea look for alternative solutions.
