Chelsea defender Malo Gusto has launched a passionate defence of manager Liam Rosenior, insisting the players are fully behind the head coach following a difficult run of form.
‘I want to play for him’ — Gusto delivers passionate defence of Rosenior
Rosenior took charge at Stamford Bridge in January, replacing Enzo Maresca in a decision that surprised many.
The former Hull City boss quickly became the target of social media ridicule from both rival and Chelsea supporters.
While his tenure began positively with victories over Atalanta and a comeback win against West Ham, recent results have seen Chelsea slide down the table.
A 3-0 defeat to Everton before the international break extended the team’s losing streak to four matches, following heavy aggregate losses to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League and a home defeat to Newcastle.
Despite the mounting pressure, Gusto remains adamant that Rosenior possesses the qualities to succeed. The French full-back rejected the external criticism and highlighted the manager’s character and passion.
“I think he is a top coach,” Gusto told ESPN.
“I saw that a lot of people criticised him. Not really [understanding why]. I have worked with him a lot since he joined Chelsea.
I think he is a top person first of all, a top manager as well. He is young, but if he is the Chelsea manager it is because he has the talent for this.”
Gusto added that the squad must take responsibility for turning the season around.
“As a team, we have to believe in him, believe in the way we play, and stick to our plan.
He is really honest, really simple, and you can see that he is really passionate. I feel like I want to play for him.”
The defender also revealed that Maresca’s sacking came as a shock to the dressing room, describing the managerial change as a major disruption.
Gusto acknowledged that adapting to a new system mid-season has proven challenging for a young squad but urged patience as they work to restore Chelsea to their expected level.
