Chelsea will be determined to avoid another disappointing result against Sunderland when they travel to the Stadium of Light this weekend, with three defenders having particular reasons to deliver improved performances.

According to a report by Chelsea Chronicles on Monday, November 2, 2026, Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana and Jorrel Hato will be keen to make amends for their disappointing displays in last season's 2-1 defeat.

Chelsea suffered two 2-1 defeats against Sunderland during the 2025/26 campaign, including their final Premier League match of the season. Xabi Alonso's side will now have another opportunity to respond when the two teams meet again.

Gusto could be particularly motivated to produce a better performance. The French defender scored an own goal during Chelsea's previous visit to the Stadium of Light and also made a mistake that contributed to another Sunderland goal.

His place in the starting line-up is also uncertain, with Josh Acheampong's recent displays at right-back potentially giving Alonso another reason to favour the young defender.

Nevertheless, Gusto could still start the match or feature as a substitute, giving him an opportunity to improve on his previous performance against Sunderland.

Fofana also has unfinished business against the Black Cats after experiencing a difficult afternoon in the corresponding fixture last season.

The French centre-back was sent off during the 2-1 defeat and received a Sofascore rating of 5.1, making him the lowest-rated Chelsea player in the match.

He also failed to record a single tackle throughout the encounter, underlining his struggles during the game. With questions surrounding his recent performances, a strong display this weekend could help rebuild confidence among Chelsea supporters.

Hato is the third defender hoping to produce a better showing against Sunderland. The Dutchman received a Sofascore rating of 5.8 in the previous meeting, the second-lowest among Chelsea players.

Like Fofana, he failed to make a tackle and committed an error that resulted in a goal. However, his involvement this weekend remains uncertain because of an injury.

Chelsea will therefore be hoping for a significantly improved defensive display when they return to the Stadium of Light.

For Gusto, Fofana and potentially Hato, the encounter provides an opportunity to put last season's disappointing result behind them.