“His performance yesterday clearly shows that he is more harm than good to the chemistry of the team. He almost made Enzo Maresca looked bad yesterday. Get him out now before it’s too late” – This is according to Chelsea legend Didier Drogba as claims that Chelsea should consider ‘shelving’ their 5/10 rated player who had fewer touches than Sanchez and was worse than Garnacho during the match against Everton.

Chelsea managed to shake off their recent struggles by claiming a vital Premier League victory, defeating Everton 2–0 at Stamford Bridge.

After going four matches without a win, Enzo Maresca’s side finally rediscovered their rhythm, recording their first league success over the festive period and restoring some much-needed confidence.

Cole Palmer wasted little time making an impact on his return to home turf. Just 21 minutes in, the England international opened the scoring after being picked out by Malo Gusto. Palmer timed his run perfectly between Everton’s defenders before calmly slotting the ball past Jordan Pickford.

Gusto then capped off an impressive first half with a goal of his own shortly before the break. The full-back finished off a swift counterattack, converting from close range after Pedro Neto squared the ball across the box.

Chelsea controlled proceedings from start to finish, delivering a composed and disciplined display. They enjoyed 58% of the ball and registered 17 attempts on goal, five of which tested the goalkeeper.

Garnacho struggles despite Chelsea dominance

Despite the convincing performance, not every Chelsea player impressed. Alejandro Garnacho endured another inconsistent outing.

Since arriving from Manchester United in the summer, the Argentine winger has struggled to find consistency, contributing just two goals and two assists in 16 appearances. His showing against Everton did little to improve that record.

The 21-year-old passed up three clear opportunities to extend Chelsea’s lead, including a gilt-edged chance in the first half. Overall, he lost possession seven times and failed to win either of his two duels.

Those numbers were reflected in his post-match assessment, with Goal reporter Richie Mills awarding him a 6/10 rating, noting that while Garnacho can beat defenders in one-on-one situations, his finishing remains an issue.

Joao Pedro endures even tougher afternoon

However, Garnacho was not Chelsea’s weakest performer on the day. That distinction arguably belonged to Joao Pedro.

Starting as the central striker in the absence of Liam Delap, the Brazilian found himself isolated and largely ineffective. His limited involvement was underlined by the fact he recorded only 37 touches—fewer than goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.

Pedro lost the ball ten times, managed just one shot, created a single chance, and won only seven of his 17 duels. His struggles were evident throughout the match.

Source: Sofascore

Mills was particularly critical of Pedro’s display, handing him a 5/10 rating and describing the forward as being in the middle of a difficult spell, with the sharpness he showed earlier in the season seemingly gone.

Selection decisions loom for Maresca

With Chelsea preparing to face Newcastle United next weekend, Maresca may consider making changes. Pedro could be at risk of dropping out of the starting XI, especially with alternatives available despite Delap’s injury.

Pedro Neto has already filled in as a central option this season, including in the Champions League against Barcelona, while young striker Marc Guiu could also be given an opportunity.

Chelsea’s upcoming Carabao Cup tie away at Cardiff City may serve as a chance for squad rotation, potentially allowing Guiu to stake his claim ahead of future league matches.

Given Pedro’s underwhelming display against Everton, it would come as little surprise if Maresca opts for a different attacking approach in the games ahead.