Chelsea defender Malo Gusto has spoken positively about his early experiences under new head coach Liam Rosenior, revealing how a more flexible tactical brief has allowed him to enjoy his football again.
Gusto made his first appearance under Rosenior in Wednesday night’s 1–0 victory over Pafos, having missed recent matches against Charlton, Arsenal and Brentford due to injury and illness. His performance offered an early glimpse into how Rosenior plans to use his full-backs.
A more fluid role on the right
Against Pafos, Gusto was frequently seen operating high and wide, while also stepping into central areas during build-up phases — a hybrid role that echoed aspects of his previous responsibilities under Enzo Maresca but with added freedom.
“The coach told me to be a bit more free on the pitch,” Gusto explained. “To change my position more during the game. Sometimes I can go in the pocket, sometimes I can go wide.
“It’s more or less the same way to play, which is good because it means there haven’t been a lot of changes for us.”
The Frenchman’s comments suggest Rosenior is prioritising continuity while subtly adjusting positional demands rather than overhauling Chelsea’s structure mid-season.
Attacking instincts encouraged
Known for his attacking instincts, Gusto admitted the new system suits his natural game.
“I like to attack — that’s my type of game,” he said. “I’m really enjoying playing this system and being more free. Now it’s about keeping improving to help the team as much as possible.”
Having followed Chelsea’s recent tactical evolution, that balance between structure and freedom appears central to Rosenior’s early approach, particularly as he works with a squad still adapting to managerial change.
Dressing room response to Rosenior
Beyond individual roles, Gusto also offered insight into how the squad is responding to life under a new head coach.
“It’s a new era with new tactics and new things to improve,” he said. “Everyone here is happy to have him with us. Now it’s our job to put everything together, rebuild something as a team and perform as much as possible.”
The emphasis on collective responsibility reflects a broader reset at Stamford Bridge, where cohesion has been as much a priority as results.
Focus turns to Palace test
Chelsea now turn their attention back to Premier League action, with an away trip to Crystal Palace scheduled for Sunday, 25 January. For Gusto, the challenge will be maintaining fitness and momentum as Rosenior continues to shape his preferred XI.
Why Gusto’s role matters
Modern full-backs are no longer restricted to touchline duties. Rosenior’s willingness to trust Gusto with positional freedom signals a system built on intelligence and adaptability rather than rigid roles. If executed consistently, it could unlock a more dynamic Chelsea attack.
Key Insights
- Malo Gusto has made his first appearance under Liam Rosenior.
- His role now includes greater positional freedom.
- Rosenior has avoided drastic tactical changes.
- The squad have responded positively to the new setup.
- Chelsea face Crystal Palace next in the league.
What’s Next
As Rosenior’s tenure develops, players like Gusto may become key indicators of Chelsea’s tactical direction. Greater freedom for full-backs could prove central to how the Blues create width and overloads in the coming weeks.
Could Malo Gusto’s freedom become a defining feature of Chelsea under Liam Rosenior?
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