According to a report by The Athletic on Monday, November 2, 2026, Steven Gerrard has criticised Wesley Fofana following his disappointing performance in Chelsea's 2-0 Premier League victory over Manchester United, raising concerns about the defender's concentration and decision making.

The former Liverpool captain jokingly described Fofana as Manchester United's best player during the first half at Stamford Bridge after the Frenchman repeatedly struggled to keep possession.

Chelsea eventually secured an important victory through goals from Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer. However, Fofana's display attracted attention for the wrong reasons, particularly during the opening 45 minutes.

The centre-back was handed a starting opportunity after Maxence Lacroix suffered a hamstring injury during Chelsea's Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool. However, he failed to make the most of the opportunity and gave away possession to Amad Diallo while attempting to play out from the back.

Speaking on The Overlap Daily, Gerrard acknowledged Manchester United's strong first-half performance but also highlighted Chelsea's defensive problems.

“They Man United were fantastic in the first half. Carrick picked the right team,” he said.

“They could have gone in two or three up; they looked dangerous, organised, much better than Chelsea. Fofana was United’s best player in the first half; he kept getting robbed. Game of two halves for sure.

The latest criticism adds to growing concerns about Fofana's consistency since joining Chelsea. He previously attracted negative attention during the Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool after conceding a penalty shortly after Rogers had scored from the spot. He also missed his attempt during the subsequent penalty shootout.

The defender has faced disciplinary difficulties as well, having received red cards against Burnley and Sunderland last season.

Meanwhile, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso must consider his defensive options ahead of Saturday's Premier League trip to Sunderland.

With Lacroix expected to remain unavailable until 2027, Chelsea have limited choices at centre-back. Levi Colwill remains an option, while Aaron Anselmino is working towards regaining full fitness.

Academy defender Tayo Subuloye could also come into consideration, with some supporters calling for him to receive an opportunity in the senior team.

Fofana may retain his place against Sunderland, but his recent performances have increased the pressure on him to deliver a more convincing display. Alonso must now decide whether to continue trusting the Frenchman or make changes to his defensive line-up.

Make Gerrard’s criticism more neutralTighten the repeated Fofana criticismStrengthen the article’s opening paragraph