Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez react excitedly to Chelsea teammate’s debut
Enzo Maresca handed a Chelsea debut to one of the club’s latest prospects during their Club World Cup clash against Benfica.
Chelsea progressed to the last eight of the competition with a convincing 4-1 win over the Portuguese giants, but the match wasn’t without frustration.
Extreme weather conditions around the Bank of America Stadium forced play to be suspended for almost two hours.
Reece James opened the scoring for the Blues, but controversy followed after a contentious handball decision against Malo Gusto gifted Benfica a penalty, which Angel Di Maria calmly converted to bring the sides level.
Maresca’s team responded in extra time, showing their resilience as Christopher Nkunku, Pedro Neto, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall all found the net to seal Chelsea’s place in the next round, where they will face Palmeiras.
Among the positives from the night was a senior debut for one of Chelsea’s emerging talents, who later shared their excitement online. Some of the player’s teammates have since reacted to the post, marking the occasion and welcoming them to the first-team stage.
Aaron Anselmino makes Chelsea debut against Benfica
Aaron Anselmino signed for Chelsea last summer in a deal worth around £15 million from Boca Juniors but was immediately loaned back to his boyhood club for the remainder of the season.
Now, the highly-rated defender has finally made his debut for the Blues, featuring in their Club World Cup victory over Benfica — something he proudly acknowledged on Instagram.
Anselmino posted: “Happy for my debut and team victory, go Chelsea!”
His message sparked plenty of support from his new teammates, with Levi Colwill commenting: “Yes hermano” while goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen added: “I’m so happy for you.” Enzo Fernandez also showed his support with a flexed arm emoji.
Other players, including Romeo Lavia, Moises Caicedo, and Nicolas Jackson, also showed their appreciation by liking the post.
Before making the switch to Stamford Bridge, Anselmino had established himself as a rising star at Boca Juniors, making 18 appearances across all competitions, scoring twice, and providing three assists, and has now finally made his breakthrough into the first-team.
Chelsea suffer Marc Guehi transfer setback
Chelsea’s plans to reinforce their defence this summer have taken a hit after one of their targets appears to have his heart set on a move elsewhere.
Football Insider revealed Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi has privately told friends he wants to join Liverpool, despite interest from both Chelsea and Tottenham.
It’s a blow for the Blues in their pursuit of their former academy graduate, but it could present more opportunities for Anselmino, who will be eager to impress and earn regular minutes in the first team as the new season unfolds.