Fans on social media slammed centre-back Benoit Badiashile despite Chelsea outclassing Barrow 5-0 in their EFL Cup Round Three game on Tuesday (September 24). Enzo Maresca began his first league cup run at Stamford Bridge with a comfortable victory.
It was the Christopher Nkunku show at Stamford Bridge, with the Frenchman bagging a hat-trick (8', 15' and 75'). New signing Pedro Neto (48') and an own goal by Paul Farman (28') made it 5-0 for the home side.
Despite the domination, the Blues faithful were not pleased with Benoit Badiashile's display in the Chelsea backline. The French center-back managed eight clearances, two interceptions, and one tackle throughout the game. He also lost possession six times throughout the ninety minutes.
Fans unleashed their wrath on the French defender on X (formerly Twitter), arguing that he doesn't deserve a place in the club's backline. Some popular comments on X are as follows:
"Badiashile is so lucky to be at this club," wrote a fan on X.
"Badiashile is actually terrible," added another.
"What happened to Badiashile man," wrote another fan.
"The fact that Badiashile is still here is why I can't take this club seriously. First, we let Don Azpi go to keep a guy who's been out longer than he's been here, and the wall TS6, for this of all people. Man walked the ball into his own net, I can never forgive that bs," another Blues faithful said.
One fan also suggested bringing in Barcelona's Jules Kounde, writing:
"What’s your thoughts on Chelsea being linked to Jules Koundé?"
"Wouldn’t be a bad deal if Badiashile or Disasi leaves," replied another.
Chelsea have reportedly ended their pursuit of Jules Kounde
According to recent reports, Chelsea have ended their pursuit of Barcelona right-back Jules Kounde.
It was earlier reported that The Blues were looking to sign Kounde as a replacement for the injury-laden Reece James. James has been a long-term absentee for the Blues and has not made a single appearance since being sent off against Brighton & Hove Albion on May 15.
Kounde has been one of the most important players for the Catalan giants under Hansi Flick, having played every minute of the season so far. In seven games, the right-back has recorded a goal and an assist for Barcelona across competitions.
Kounde is thus considered a non-transferable asset by Barcelona's management and is unlikely to leave the Catalan side until his contract runs out in June 2027. For the time being, Chelsea have reportedly looked at Fiorentina's Michael Kayode as a cheaper alternative to Kounde.