Malo Gusto’s very positive start to the season for Chelsea has now continued with an excellent display for France during the international break.
Despite Reece James‘ prolonged spell of fitness at Stamford Bridge this season, Gusto has remained a constant in Enzo Maresca’s side, breaking a personal duck in their last outing.
Gusto scored his first Chelsea goal against Wolves, putting an end to nearly a century of games where he had never scored for his club.
With France already qualified for the World Cup, they made plenty of changes to their starting line-up to face Azerbaijan, a game which they won 3-1.
Azerbaijan v France - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier
Photo by Aziz Karimov/Getty Images
Malo Gusto sends message to Didier Deschamps with brilliant France performance
Gusto provided two assists in the game, even having what would’ve been his first France goal disallowed alongside it.
French media believe that Gusto has piled the pressure on international teammate Jules Kounde, with Didier Deschamps having a decision to make when it comes to the 2026 tournament.
GOAL France stated: “Had a hesitant start to the match. It was his flank that led to the goal conceded. He then became one of the most dynamic players. His attacking runs caused problems for the opposing defense, and two of his crosses resulted in assists. A convincing performance, and a strong message sent to Deschamps.
Meanwhile, Foot Mercato said: “Malo Gusto further impressed on Sunday evening against Azerbaijan (1-3) . The Chelsea right-back, originally from Décines-Charpieu in Lyon, was caught out of position for Dashdamirov’s opening goal (1-0, 3rd minute), but quickly demonstrated his resilience and mental fortitude.
“In the 17th minute, he delivered a perfect cross for Mateta to equalize, and then Gusto repeated the feat in the 30th minute for Akliouche with another pinpoint cross. Dominant in duels and very active both offensively and defensively, Gusto was named man of the match and received a 7.5 rating in our review.”
Malo Gusto celebrating first Chelsea goal
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Gusto’s France stats
After making his debut for France in 2023, it wouldn’t be until 2025 when he would return to the squad, missing out completely on Euro 2024.
He would go on to feature in the latter stages of the Nations League over the summer, providing an assist in their chaotic loss to Marc Cucurella’s Spain.
Now, Gusto has featured in seven of their last eight games across all competitions, completing 90 minutes in three of them.
If the Frenchman can continue to star at Stamford Bridge, he looks a shoo-in to travel to North America next summer, and potentially earn his way into the starting side.