Chelsea fans were given a glimpse of the future as Liam Delap came off the bench to set up Enzo Fernandez in a 2-0 win over LAFC in the Club World Cup. For a striker still learning the ropes at Stamford Bridge, it was a dream debut — and a direct challenge to Nicolas Jackson.
Delap, signed for £30m this summer, is already showing the confidence and physical presence that prompted Enzo Maresca to reunite with the young forward he once helped nurture at Manchester City.
Delap on His Chelsea Debut: “You Have to Thrive off Competition”
“It’s a really happy feeling for me… I’m excited to be here and contribute. You have to thrive off the competition.” — Liam Delap
Delap’s first outing in Chelsea blue came with immediate rewards — a crisp assist just minutes after replacing Jackson. While Jackson also got on the scoresheet with an assist for Pedro Neto, the spotlight quickly shifted to the 21-year-old who may now be fast-tracking his claim to the starting No.9 shirt.
Delap made clear his intent: he’s here to compete, not wait.
Jackson vs Delap: Who’s Chelsea’s Top No.9 Now?
Nicolas Jackson showed flashes last season but often lacked consistency in front of goal. Delap, meanwhile, arrives off a breakout year at relegated Ipswich where he scored 12 times in a struggling side. His understanding of Maresca’s system may give him an edge as the Club World Cup unfolds.
2024/25 Striker Stats – Jackson vs Delap
| Player | Goals | Assists | Shot Conversion % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nicolas Jackson | 10 | 4 | 13% |
| Liam Delap (Ipswich) | 12 | 3 | 17% |
- Liam Delap marked Chelsea debut with assist to Enzo
- Former Man City striker signed for £30m
- Delap determined to compete with Jackson
- Club World Cup proving early test for both strikers
- Maresca values Delap’s tactical understanding
What’s Next for Delap and Chelsea?
With Chelsea sitting top of Group D in the Club World Cup, Delap could see increased minutes against Flamengo and ES Tunis. If he continues this momentum, a regular Premier League role may follow — and Jackson could soon find himself under real pressure.
Can Delap dethrone Jackson this season?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 17 Jun 2025 14:33
I think Delap is deff the better finisher and has a better touch, but off-topic. We need wingers, Madueke and Neto aren't top-players
By JamesLove 17 Jun 2025 14:36
Neto has been good and Madueke his issue is that he’s not consistent enough.
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