BREAKING NEWS: Chelsea legend Joe Cole harshly criticized one of Chelsea’s players after a poor showing during their 5-0 victory over Barrow in the Carabao Cup third round

Chelsea fans took to social media to voice their discontent with center-back Benoit Badiashile’s performance during the team’s commanding 5-0 win over Barrow in the EFL Cup Round Three on Tuesday, September 24.

Despite Chelsea’s dominant display, with new manager Enzo Maresca overseeing his first League Cup match at Stamford Bridge, some supporters were unimpressed with Badiashile’s contribution to the match.Christopher Nkunku stole the spotlight, delivering a standout performance by securing a hat-trick with goals in the 8th, 15th, and 75th minutes.Pedro Neto, one of Chelsea’s recent signings, also found the back of the net in the 48th minute, while an own goal by Barrow goalkeeper Paul Farman in the 28th minute added to Chelsea’s tally, leading to a comfortable 5-0 victory for the Blues.

However, despite the positive result, many Chelsea fans focused their attention on Badiashile’s defensive performance.While the French defender made eight clearances, two interceptions, and one tackle, his overall display was marred by the fact that he lost possession six times during the match.

This prompted a wave of criticism from fans on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), with several questioning whether he deserves a spot in Chelsea’s starting lineup.

One fan expressed their dissatisfaction, writing, “Badiashile is so lucky to be at this club,” while another commented, “Badiashile is actually terrible.”

A third fan voiced their disappointment, asking, “What happened to Badiashile, man?” These comments reflect the growing frustration among supporters regarding the defender’s form and contribution to the team.

One particularly frustrated supporter drew comparisons between Badiashile and former Chelsea players, expressing disbelief that he remains in the squad.

The fan criticized the club for allowing long-serving defenders like César Azpilicueta to leave, while retaining Badiashile, stating, “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.”

Some fans also discussed potential replacements for Badiashile, with one supporter asking for opinions on Chelsea’s rumored interest in Barcelona’s Jules Kounde, writing, “What’s your thoughts on Chelsea being linked to Jules Kounde?” Another fan responded, “Wouldn’t be a bad deal if Badiashile or Disasi leaves.”

However, recent reports suggest that Chelsea is no longer pursuing Kounde.

Initially, the Blues had considered signing the Barcelona defender as a potential solution to fill the gap left by Reece James, who has been sidelined with an injury since his red card against Brighton & Hove Albion on May 15.

Kounde, who has become an essential player under Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, has been a regular starter for the Catalan club this season, contributing a goal and an assist across seven appearances.

Given Kounde’s importance to Barcelona, the club has made it clear that the defender is not for sale and will remain with the team until his contract expires in June 2027.

As a result, Chelsea has reportedly shifted its attention to Fiorentina’s Michael Kayode, who is viewed as a more affordable alternative to Kounde.

It seems that Benoit Badiashile’s performance in Chelsea’s 5-0 win over Barrow in the EFL Cup has sparked discontent among some fans. Despite the team’s dominant victory, many supporters took to social media to criticize Badiashile’s contribution, focusing on his loss of possession six times during the match, despite notable defensive stats like eight clearances and two interceptions. Fans expressed concerns about his form, with some even comparing him unfavorably to former Chelsea defenders like César Azpilicueta.

The criticism reflects broader worries about Chelsea’s defensive depth, particularly with ongoing discussions around potential signings. Although some fans mentioned Barcelona’s Jules Kounde as a possible replacement, recent reports indicate Chelsea has shifted its focus away from him, given his importance to Barcelona and their refusal to sell. Instead, Fiorentina’s Michael Kayode has emerged as a more realistic target for Chelsea’s defensive reinforcement.

Badiashile, who has been out of action for significant periods since joining Chelsea, now faces mounting pressure to regain his form and secure his place in the lineup under new manager Enzo Maresca.