Gusto Backs Rosenior as Chelsea's Losing Streak Reaches Four Games

"We just need to trust the process." Those are the words from Malo Gusto, Chelsea's right back, as he defends manager Liam Rosenior following a dismal run that saw the Blues stumble into the international break with four consecutive losses and 12 goals conceded.

While it's a show of loyalty from the French defender, it's also the type of statement players typically make when their manager's position is under scrutiny.

Promising Beginning Turns Into Troubling Collapse

Rosenior's tenure at Stamford Bridge started on an encouraging note. Brought in from Strasbourg in January after Enzo Maresca's unexpected dismissal, the 41-year-old manager won seven of his opening nine matches. His only two setbacks came against Arsenal, who are currently dominating the Premier League title race. Early doubts about appointing a manager whose previous experience was limited to the Championship seemed unfounded.

Then everything unraveled. Late goals cost Chelsea valuable points against Leeds and Burnley. Another loss to Arsenal followed. The current slump includes defeats to PSG, Newcastle, Everton, and a fourth loss that has left Champions League qualification increasingly uncertain, with no European competition this campaign to provide a safety net.

Chelsea's chances of securing a top-four finish are diminishing with each passing week.

Gusto's Public Support Carries Extra Significance

What makes Gusto's vocal backing particularly noteworthy is that he hasn't been a regular starter under Rosenior. Ten teammates have logged more playing time since January. Squad players typically maintain a low profile or quietly seek opportunities elsewhere. Gusto has done neither.

"I believe he's an excellent coach," the France international shared with ESPN. "He's a genuine person, very honest and straightforward. You can tell he's truly passionate about the game. I want to perform for him and demonstrate my quality whenever he gives me the opportunity."

Cole Palmer expressed similar sentiments earlier this season — "Playing under Liam is fantastic" — while Enzo Fernández praised him as a "great coach" before his own attention seemed to wander. At least publicly, there's no sign of dressing room rebellion.

However, the tactical system is clearly still being refined. Rosenior implemented a new pressing approach that visibly faltered during the 1-0 loss to Newcastle. Gusto openly acknowledged the challenges: "When you're getting comfortable with one system and then immediately have to switch to another, it becomes more difficult, especially for us because we don't have as much experience."

It's a frank assessment. A squad this costly, still adapting mid-season to a second different managerial approach within twelve months, was always susceptible to precisely this type of slide.

The social media ridicule of "LinkedIn Liam" — referencing his glasses, inspirational social media posts, and that viral video of him mishitting a ball — has been unfair and largely undeserved. The genuine footballing issue is more clear-cut: four defeats, 12 goals shipped, and a top-four battle that Chelsea no longer dictate. Player confidence in the manager is valuable, but post-break results will ultimately determine everything.