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Delap is ready to embrace competition after impressive Chelsea debut
New Chelsea striker Liam Delap wasted no time making an impact on his debut, providing an assist just minutes after coming on in their 2-0 victory over Los Angeles FC in the FIFA Club World Cup opener.
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The 22-year-old, who replaced Nicolas Jackson shortly after the 60-minute mark, is now eager for more and ready to embrace the competition for the coveted number nine role at Stamford Bridge.
Delap's immediate contribution, setting up Enzo Fernandez's goal, came after Jackson himself had played a part in the opening goal by assisting Pedro Neto.
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This has set the stage for a promising and healthy competition for the striker position within Enzo Maresca's squad.
What Delap said
Far from seeing it as a rivalry, Delap views the battle for minutes as a positive challenge for personal growth.
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07:26 - 17.06.2025
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"It is always good to have competition; this is football," he stated.
He continued, "It is an incredible club, and it is always going to be incredibly hard, but you have to thrive off the competition.
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07:04 - 17.06.2025
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"It's a really happy feeling for me. I'm so excited to be here and to play my first game, and to be able to contribute is a good feeling. The team have welcomed me really well. I have only had a few sessions here, but I am excited for more.
"Yes, of course, it is good to help the team, but I want to score some as well.
A key factor that may expedite Delap's adaptation to life at Chelsea is his prior relationship with head coach Enzo Maresca.
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The pair previously worked together during Delap's formative years in the academy at Manchester City, an understanding that Maresca believes will be beneficial.
"The good thing about Liam is that he knows the way we want to play, so the process is quite quick," Maresca commented.
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15:15 - 17.06.2025
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He added, "Also we gave a chance to Dario Essugo, that is another player [we have], so it’s good for both of them."
The competition for the striker spot is particularly interesting given their club form. While Nicolas Jackson showed flashes of brilliance, his consistency in front of goal was questioned at times last season, managing 10 Premier League goals in the 2024-25 campaign.
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10:28 - 17.06.2025
Where are the fans? — Chelsea boss Maresca reacts to 'strange' Club World Cup opener against LAFC
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca was delighted with his team's 2-0 win against LAFC in their Club World Cup opener, but admitted the match was played in a strange environment.
In contrast, Delap found the net 12 times for a struggling Ipswich side that ultimately faced relegation, suggesting his ability to score even in challenging circumstances.
With both strikers contributing in Chelsea's Club World Cup debut, the battle for the starting berth is set to be a compelling narrative as the Blues continue their quest for silverware.
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