Friday night represented a full circle moment for Moises Caicedo at Chelsea.
The Ecuador international was on the scoresheet as Chelsea recorded a thumping 5-1 win over West Ham at the London Stadium.
It presumably put some demons to bed for the South American, who actually made his debut for Chelsea at this same stadium back in August 2023 following a £115m move from Brighton, only to receive widespread criticism after conceding a penalty as the Blues lost 3-1.
After Moises Caicedo enjoyed a poetic 100th appearance for Chelsea, he deserves credit for staying true to a commitment he made to fans after that difficult debut.
Moises Caicedo has kept his word to Chelsea fans
Following that defeat to West Ham in August 2023, the Ecuadorian said: “It wasn’t the debut that I expected but I’m happy to get my first minutes with this big club. We’ll keep working hard to put this team where it deserves. Thanks to the fans who are supporting me.”
As Chelsea left the London Stadium with a 5-1 win under their belt, adorning the FIFA Club World Cup champions badge on their shirt and moving to the top of the Premier League as well, it is safe to say Caicedo has delivered on his promise to “put” the Blues back amongst the elite.
What Chelsea players said to Moises Caicedo after his tough debut, signs of real togetherness at Stamford Bridge
Some may accuse Chelsea – who still want to sign Alejandro Garnacho – of being a cold club, in the way they often ruthlessly banish players and tear through a number of managers.
However, the current squad appear to be a great group, and have clearly helped Caicedo – who marshalled the midfield against West Ham – forget all about that debut to become the world class midfielder many expected him to become.
After that 3-1 loss in 2023, Enzo Fernandez told Caicedo: “It is not how it starts, but how it ends. Let’s go all out brother! We will all work together.”
Reece James added “together as one” while Romeo Lavia also sent “in this all together” – with the team admirably rallying around the Chelsea No.25 as criticism poured in from all angles.
Now, we are all seeing the benefits of what happens when support is given to a top talent.