Pedro Neto opened his Premier League account for Chelsea with a crucial goal in their 1-1 showdown against Arsenal on Sunday afternoon. While his strike equalized the game, it may have left manager Enzo Maresca with a selection puzzle to solve.

Breaking the Deadlock: Neto’s Goal

Ten minutes after Gabriel Martinelli put Arsenal in the lead, Neto found an opening in the final third. His clever movement gave him space to unleash a left-footed shot past David Raya, marking his first league goal since February.

A Shift to the Right Pays Off

Just two minutes after switching to the right flank—prompted by Mykhailo Mudryk being subbed out for Noni Madueke—Neto made an impact. The 24-year-old displayed impressive dribbling, often besting Ben White during his spell on the left, yet he hadn’t managed a goal from that side. Interestingly, all three of his goals this season have come from the right.

Maresca’s Dilemma: Where Should Neto Play?

The success of Neto’s move to the right has raised a tough question for Maresca: should Neto become a more regular goal threat, or remain a creative force on the left?

Madueke’s Performance: A Strong Contender for the Right

So far this season, Noni Madueke has arguably been more effective than both Jadon Sancho and Mykhailo Mudryk, consistently playing on the right side. Though he only has one goal contribution in his last 11 appearances, Madueke’s one-on-one skills—marked by sharp body feints and sudden sprints—allow him to create half-chances with ease.

However, his struggles to produce results in the final third may eventually become a concern for Chelsea, especially if they hope to challenge for the Premier League title. Maresca must now weigh if Madueke is a better option on the right than Sancho or Mudryk.

Neto’s Rising Form and Madueke’s Slump

With Neto thriving on the right, he’s putting forth a strong case to secure a starting spot there. So far, Maresca has had the luxury of a settled lineup this season, but Neto’s form and Madueke’s recent dip could prompt a lineup shakeup.

Future Selection Decisions: Sancho, Mudryk, and Madueke

Will Jadon Sancho reclaim a spot in the starting XI once fully fit? Could Mudryk’s solid performances in cup matches earn him more playing time? Or will Madueke hold onto his role despite recent form?

Neto’s Place in Chelsea’s Starting XI

One thing is certain: Neto has done enough to earn his place in Chelsea’s first-choice lineup, thanks to his impressive contributions over the past few weeks.