Pedro Neto’s spot in the starting lineup is in jeopardy following a disappointing performance, with Alex Richards of The Mirror calling him “invisible” on the field.
Neto’s underwhelming showing led to his substitution at halftime, with Jadon Sancho taking his place.
Sancho, who had only recently joined the team on deadline day before the international break, immediately brought a fresh burst of energy and creativity to the game, further highlighting Neto’s lack of impact.
Neto’s early removal seemed directly tied to his struggles in the first half.
Statistically, he had little influence on the game, managing to complete just 67% of his passes.
His creativity was stifled, with only one key pass made during his time on the field, and he failed to complete any dribble attempts, demonstrating his difficulties in making an impact.
These numbers indicate that Neto is currently out of form and having trouble adjusting to the tactical demands being placed on him.
The difference between the first and second halves of the match was striking.
Sancho, making his debut, took to the field with something to prove, and his introduction breathed new life into the team.
He quickly found his stride and played a crucial role in the decisive moment of the match, assisting Nkunku for the winning goal.
Sancho’s debut performance showcased the stark contrast between the two wingers, with Neto fading into obscurity while Sancho seized the moment, proving why the club made the last-minute move for him.
Match ratings further highlighted the gap in performance between the two players.
Neto received a disappointing 4 out of 10 from GOAL, with his performance described as “anonymous” due to his limited involvement in key moments.
His struggles to assert himself in the attacking third have put his place in the team under scrutiny, and with Sancho’s dynamic introduction, the pressure on Neto to improve has only increased.
Although Neto managed to provide an assist earlier in the season during a high-scoring win against Wolves, his performances have been lackluster since joining the club from the Midlands.
Part of his difficulties could be attributed to his positioning, as he has not been deployed in his preferred right-wing role.
However, it remains essential for him to adapt and find ways to contribute, regardless of his position on the pitch.
Neto now faces a significant challenge to reclaim his starting spot.
Both Madueke and Palmer have been preferred on the right side in recent matches, and their consistent form makes it tough for Neto to break back into the team.
His task is not just to improve his performances but to convince the manager that he deserves a chance in his favored role, where he has historically excelled.
As the next match approaches, it seems unlikely that Neto will be reinstated on the right flank, and his place on the left side is also in doubt, especially given Sancho’s outstanding debut, which earned him man-of-the-match honors.
Sancho’s immediate impact at Stamford Bridge and his growing confidence suggest that he is on track to solidify his place in the starting lineup, likely at Neto’s expense.
For Neto, the road ahead is clear but challenging.
He will need to rediscover the form that once made him one of the most promising young wingers in the Premier League.
If he fails to do so, the increasing competition for attacking spots at the club may push him further down the pecking order.
With Sancho’s arrival, the pressure on Neto has intensified, and he must step up if he wants to remain a key part of the team going forward.
