Amidst the intricate web of plans for Chelsea’s pre-season ventures, a looming disruption casts its shadow, none other than the potential absence of Malo Gusto, among other players, painting a picture of uncertainty.

The anticipated journey of the Blues to the American terrain for their pre-season escapade stands at risk, with Mauricio Pochettino possibly embarking on this voyage sans the indispensable presence of Malo Gusto, the right-back who has etched his brilliance within the ranks of Chelsea.

This Argentine tactician harbors a fervent desire to have Gusto in his arsenal, given the latter’s stellar performance throughout the current season. Surprisingly, Gusto, primarily tasked with defensive duties, has defied convention, orchestrating eight crucial assists across 29 appearances for his beloved club during this campaign.

The hypothetical scenario of Gusto’s absence during the club’s preparatory phase for the forthcoming 2024/25 season presents a vexing prospect. Noteworthy is Gusto’s recent accolade, as he earned a prestigious spot in the FA Cup Team of the Round during the quarter-finals of the said tournament.

The cloud of uncertainty thickens further, as murmurs speculate Gusto’s potential exclusion from Chelsea’s pre-season due to his involvement in the forthcoming 2024 Olympic Games, representing the French national team, as reported by the Evening Standard. Alongside Gusto, the likes of Benoit Badiashile, Lesley Ugochukwu, and Wesley Fofana could also find themselves in a similar predicament, amplifying the disruption.

The impending summer promises an abundance of international footballing festivities, including the Euros, set to grace the German soil. Chelsea faithfuls, gripped by trepidation, fervently wish for the safe return of their beloved players. However, a cloud of apprehension hovers, given the spate of injuries that have plagued the team throughout the season, fostering an atmosphere of unease.

The looming question regarding the schedule of the men’s football event at the Paris Olympics only serves to compound the uncertainty. Scheduled to unfold from 24th July to 10th August, the event threatens to extend Gusto’s absence well into the preseason and potentially into the nascent stages of the Premier League campaign.

In the eventuality of Gusto’s absence, Pochettino’s reliance shifts towards the fitness of Reece James, an aspiration marred by the latter’s persistent struggles with injuries during this term. Despite the setbacks, the legendary Frank Lampard continues to vouch for James’ prowess, hailing him as one of the premier right-backs globally. However, James’ ability to manifest such prowess remains stymied amidst the relentless onslaught of injuries.