“Édouard Mendy’s Return to Chelsea: Mixed Performance and Uncertain Future”

Back as a Chelsea goalkeeper six months after his last tenure, Édouard Mendy missed his comeback by being guilty of one of Nottingham Forest’s goals. He failed to get back in the saddle and further reinforces the feeling of an end to his romance with the Blues.

Relegated number 2 from Kepa Arrizabalaga, Édouard Mendy regained a starting spot in Chelsea’s goals on Saturday when they received Crystal Palace. A first since November 12 under the sign of merit given his production in training according to his trainer, Frank Lampard.

A first since the pre-World Cup which will not go down in history. Mendy will have shown good footing which was his main fault but split from a miss which led to a goal from Nottingham Forest. But the six months of waiting have brought back the flaws of the past with the Senegalese goalkeeper who is no longer this impassable wall of his first year at the London club. His punching out was overtaken by a header from Taiwo Awoniyi (13′) to open the scoring for Nottingham Forest. The game ended up 2-2 at Stamford Bridge. An error of appreciation that drew criticism from Blues fans on social networks.

Salvation by selection?

A not optimal return for the one who was on the roof of the world in 2021 by being voted best goalkeeper in Europe by 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 distance 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 the event of good offers. Under contract until 2025, his extension has stalled as negotiations have begun.

The sticking point would have been his desire to count the same salary as his competitor Kepa. A refusal from the board of the London club which would frustrate the person concerned, according to The Athletic, who could thus leave the Blues. His situation should however be subject to the anointing or not of the new coach for next season. Tipped to lead Chelsea next season, Mauricio Pochettino will have a say in the future of Édouard Mendy at Chelsea.

Far from his usual standards, the former goalkeeper of Stade Rennais could turn to the national team of Senegal to recover his health. Absent during the last rally due to a physical glitch, Mendy should be back as number one during the last two days of the Can 2023 qualifiers, scheduled in a month. A springboard which he could take advantage of to reassure but also send a signal to his competitors (Alfred Gomis, Seny Dieng and Mory Diaw) six months from the next Can.