Relegated to number 2 by Kepa Arrizabalaga, Édouard Mendy found a starting place in Chelsea’s goals on Saturday at the Crystal Palace reception. A first since November 12, 2022 under the sign of merit in view of its production in training according to its coach, Frank Lampard.
A first since the pre-World Cup that will not remain in the annals. Mendy showed good behaviour in his foot game, which was his main flaw, but suffered a failure that led to a goal by Nottingham Forest. But the six months of waiting brought back the tares of the past with the Senegalese doorman who is no longer this impassable wall of his first year at the London club. His fist-bust was overtaken by Taiwo Awoniyi (13′) to open the scoring for Nottingham Forest. The game ended with a 2-2 at the Stamford Bridge. A miscalculation that drew criticism from Blues fans on social media.
A return not optimal for the one who was on the roof of the world in 2021 being elected best goalkeeper of Europe by the UEFA then best goalkeeper at Fifa The Best. Édouard Mendy did not manage to dispel all doubts and did not score many points in his duel. Two days before the end of the Premier League, it is difficult for him to win back the hearts of the Blues but also of its leaders who would not refuse a transfer next summer in case of good offers. Under contract until 2025, its extension has stalled while negotiations were under way.
The sticking point would have been his desire to count the same salary as his competitor Kepa. A refusal of the board of the London club which would frustrate the interested party, according to The Athletic, who could leave the Blues. His situation should however be subject to the anointing or not of the new coach for next season. Mauricio Pochettino will have a say in the future of Édouard Mendy in Chelsea, and he is expected to lead Chelsea next season.
Far from his usual standards, the former Stade Rennais goalkeeper could turn to Senegal’s national team to recover his health. Missing at the last rally due to a physical glitch, Mendy should be back as number one in the last two days of the 2023 Can playoffs, scheduled in a month. A springboard that he could use to reassure but also send a signal to his competitors (Alfred Gomis, Seny Dieng and Mory Diaw) six months before the next Can.
