Revealed: Chelsea signing 'wasn't surprised' at shocking Premier League finish

James Shearman

• Updated: 12 Oct 2023 22:16 BST
• 3 min read

Chelsea defender Malo Gusto has revealed that he was 'not surprised' by the club's shocking 2022-23 season.

The Blues finished 12th in the Premier League, with both Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter sacked as managers.

They scored just 38 goals, in as many games, while conceding 47, in their worst campaign this century.

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However, Gusto, who signed for the club in January, before being loaned back to Lyon, said that he was warned of a slow start to the long-term project.

The project in question is that of Chelsea's new owners, who have opted to sign young talent from around the world, with an absence of experience and leadership.

"Before signing for a big club like Chelsea, you think and inform yourself of the situation," he told RMC Sport.

"I wasn’t necessarily surprised, the management told me that it was a long-term project that could take time to get going.

"Little by little, with the team, we are trying to create a real group that will move forward together to put Chelsea back to where it should be and win everything."

Gusto on Chelsea teammates

Gusto also spoke about his healthy relationship with Reece James, whom he is competing with for the right-back position in Mauricio Pochettino's lineup.

"We give each other a lot of advice, he tries to help me and I try to help him as best I can," the Frenchman added.

"On the pitch, it’s war, he knows it very well, we don’t necessarily give each other any favours and it’s the best who will play."

Plus, Gusto revealed his admiration for 39-year-old centre-back Thiago Silva, who has been a shining light for the Blues in recent seasons. "He’s one of the greatest defenders in the world," said Gusto.

"He’s always on top, focused on what he’s doing. Seeing that he’s always giving it his all is something that’s beautiful and inspires me a lot."