Chelsea’s emphatic 5-1 dismantling of Ajax at Stamford Bridge has left fans beaming with pride and head coach Enzo Maresca facing a welcome selection headache. With five different players getting on the scoresheet, the match showcased how a top team can capitalize when the opposition is reduced to ten men early on.
Youth Shines: Marc Guiu’s Stellar Performance
One standout from the match was 19-year-old Marc Guiu, who instantly reminded everyone why he is a product of Barcelona’s famed academy. Stepping in for the suspended João Pedro, who is serving a ban after a red card in Lisbon, Guiu took full advantage of his opportunity. His performance was nothing short of ruthless, featuring:
- Two shots on target
- Two goals scored
- One big chance missed
He could have easily secured a hat-trick if he had been determined. With seven key off-the-ball touches that directly influenced the match, Guiu displayed a natural poacher’s instinct. It is safe to say he made an impressive introduction to the Stamford Bridge faithful, demonstrating clinical finishing that will keep kit managers busy ordering new shirts.
Managerial Dilemma: Guiu vs. João Pedro
For a manager like Maresca, these are the dilemmas that make matchweek mornings more interesting than a cup of tea could suggest. Should he stick with the experienced João Pedro once he becomes available? Or, having seen what Guiu can do, should he allow the teenager to continue his run in the starting XI?
Pedro has struggled since late August, often being shifted into an attacking-midfield role rather than his preferred position as the lead striker. With months gone without a goal, his deployment as the number nine has arguably moved him away from his comfort zone.
A Balanced Approach: The Best of Both Worlds
A balanced approach could see Guiu spearheading the attack while Pedro drops just behind him. This arrangement would allow Pedro to pick up the ball and charge at defenses without the sole burden of being an out-and-out striker. Meanwhile, Enzo Fernández could continue his box-crashing exploits either alongside Pedro or in a slightly wider position.
This strategy offers several advantages:
- Fresh legs up front: Guiu’s energy could add a dynamic edge to Chelsea’s attack.
- Creativity in spaces: Pedro’s vision and skill could provide additional playmaking opportunities.
- Flexibility for the manager: Maresca can remain true to the idea that form is temporary, but class is permanent.
Guiu’s Future and the Road Ahead
If Guiu finds himself on the bench for the upcoming visit of Sunderland, he might contemplate reaching out to his agent for guarantees. However, it would be a bold decision to sideline a player who has shown such efficiency in front of goal. Nurturing a 19-year-old with proven finishing skills could indeed be the wisest move in squad management that Maresca can execute.
Ultimately, the bigger question is not whether Guiu has the talent—his performance made that clear—but whether the manager has the confidence to back him consistently. Here’s hoping Sunderland is prepared for a striker with genuine momentum; otherwise, they might find themselves in a shooting gallery.