“On the pitch, it’s war”- Malo Gusto on competing with Chelsea’s Reece James

Chelsea defender Malo Gusto comments on his rivalry with Blues skipper Reece James

Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto insists it’s “war” between him and teammate Reece James when battling for the same position at right-back. Competition is fierce between the duo despite maintaining a strong relationship off the pitch.

The Frenchman discussed his budding rivalry with James during a recent interview with RMC Sport, where the topic arose following Gusto’s first senior international call-up. Gusto is certainly a promising talent whose star is on the rise.

The 20-year-old has taken advantage of James’ injury issues to gain valuable minutes since joining Chelsea this January. Reece James‘ injuries have led to Gusto becoming a regular in Chelsea’s starting 11.

Malo Gusto admits there is intense competition between the pair, but notes James has provided guidance to help him adjust to life in London.

“We give each other a lot of advice, he tries to help me and I try to help him as best I can, on the pitch, it’s war, he knows it very well, we don’t necessarily give each other any favors and it’s the best who will simply play.”

However, when it comes to securing a starting role with the Blues, Gusto acknowledges a ruthless mentality is required. Despite a burgeoning friendship off the field, the 20-year-old insists he and James must be unrelenting in pursuing the right-back spot. Their priority is delivering peak performances, not doing favours.

He also assured that he shares “really healthy competition” with the English international, who is “a very good person”. This is good news as we can certainly benefit from competition for spots as it fosters improvement at a personal level.

It’s an indication of Gusto’s drive and determination to establish himself in Chelsea’s first-team. He isn’t content sitting behind James. Hopefully, it also convinces the Blues skipper to also push his boundaries and evolve as a player.

Gusto’s ambitious mindset has already earned the faith of France manager, Didier Deschamps, who called the youngster up for the first time. Now Gusto will look to translate his early Chelsea minutes into displacing James as first-choice right-back.

It will be a difficult task, given James’ world-class ability. But Gusto clearly backs himself to eventually come out on top in their intense battle. So far he has played seven matches across all competitions in the blue shirt.

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The Frenchman’s brave rhetoric reveals a player unwilling to defer to his more seasoned competitor. Gusto is embracing the fight, both now and in the future. That ruthless mentality will serve Gusto well as he aims to fulfil his potential in London.