Chelsea may have given rise to a new star in Marc Guiu, the La Masia graduate who delivered a standout performance against Shamrock Rovers in the Conference League. Guiu became the youngest Chelsea player to score a hat-trick in European competition, showcasing his sharp finishing and excellent link-up play with his teammates. Following his impressive displays in Europe, the young Spaniard appears poised to earn more league minutes in the near future.
Marc Guiu first caught the spotlight last season at his boyhood club Barcelona, scoring on his La Liga debut against Athletic Club after graduating from the renowned La Masia academy. In July, Chelsea activated his £5 million (€6m) release clause, securing him a five-year contract with an optional extension. The decision to let him go has drawn scrutiny toward Barcelona, a sentiment further intensified by Guiu’s impressive performances since the move.
It remains too early to judge whether Guiu’s signing has been a success for Chelsea, as he has yet to prove himself in the Premier League. The league’s physicality and pace are challenges that many foreign players struggle to adapt to. So far, Guiu has seen limited league action, with his only appearance coming as a substitute in Chelsea’s opening-day loss to Manchester City.
Introducing the #UECL top scorer 🌟
🔵 Marc Guiu = 6 goals in 6 games 🤯 pic.twitter.com/w0sSCkT5qK
— UEFA Conference League (@Conf_League) December 19, 2024
Former Chelsea star Joe Cole, speaking on TNT Sports after the match, expressed his astonishment at the teenager’s potential and criticized Barcelona for seemingly allowing him to leave without putting up much resistance.
“My thought with Mark Guiu is, how did Barcelona let him go?” Cole questioned. “When I watch him play, and he’s 18 years of age, this kid, in two years time could be an established, unbelievable No 9. I think he could go all the way because I watch him and and all the things that you can’t teach he’s already got. He knows when to go in the box, his instincts, his aggression, he’s brave. He can brush up on all the other things in his game. And at 18, he’s playing with a smile on his face, you know, I think Barcelona made a real, real mistake there.”
Although his domestic opportunities have been limited to a single substitute appearance in the Premier League against Manchester City, Guiu has thrived on the European stage. His six goals in the Conference League highlight his potential to evolve into a key player for Chelsea.
The Blues have experienced a remarkable transformation under Maresca’s leadership. Once criticized for their bloated squad, the Blues are now genuine contenders for both domestic and European titles. Their next challenge comes on Sunday when they face Everton at Goodison Park.
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
