Chelsea star linked with Man City transfer accused of 'going soft'

Malo Gusto was booed off at Anfield after a poor display in Chelsea's Carabao Cup penalty loss; pundits criticised his lack of intensity and willingness to go down easily.

Chelsea suffered a Carabao Cup exit on penalties at Anfield, following a 2-0 defeat to Tottenham on Saturday. Right-back Malo Gusto was replaced in the 67th minute and received cheers from Chelsea fans as he left the pitch, having struggled throughout the match.

On talkSPORT's Daily Football Podcast, Adrian Durham and Andy Townsend analysed Gusto's performance. Townsend said the 23-year-old, who joined Chelsea from Lyon in 2023 for around £26m, has "gone a little soft" and is taking "easy options" rather than showing the intensity that previously defined his play. Townsend noted Gusto was playing out of position on the left and criticised him for going down under minimal contact, saying he needs to "man up" and focus on his defensive duties.

Wesley Fofana also came under fire after giving away a penalty in the first half and missing his spot-kick in the shootout. Townsend highlighted Fofana's recurring pattern of costly mistakes despite his athleticism and willingness, suggesting such errors have plagued his Chelsea career.