In a surprise shake-up to Chelsea’s lineup, head coach Enzo Maresca made a bold call on Friday, choosing to start new signing Liam Delap over Nicolas Jackson in their Club World Cup clash against Flamengo.
And while the decision raised eyebrows, it gave fans their first proper look at the £30 million youngster in a high-pressure setting.
A Chance to Shine in Philadelphia
Delap, who recently joined Chelsea after a strong season with Ipswich Town, was handed his first start in the 3-1 defeat, following a lively cameo off the bench against LAFC earlier in the week.
The 21-year-old nearly made an instant impact, testing Flamengo keeper Augustin Rossi inside the opening six minutes.
He also played a part in Chelsea’s early lead, which came courtesy of Pedro Neto.
Delap showed energy, intent, and flashes of the movement that earned him the iconic No. 9 shirt — a clear sign the club sees big things in his future.
Maresca Breaks Down His Decision
After the match, Maresca addressed the lineup changes, explaining why Delap got the nod over Jackson.
“They’re both great players,” he said.
“We make decisions based on each game.
Liam is still learning how we want to play, but there’s no doubt he’ll do well once he settles in.”
The Chelsea boss also used the opportunity to rotate a few more names, including giving a start to Trevoh Chalobah, as he explores his squad depth.
Jackson’s Cameo Ends in Chaos
Delap may have missed out on a debut goal, but his replacement, Nicolas Jackson, didn’t exactly seize his moment either.
Subbed on in the 64th minute, Jackson lasted only a short while before getting sent off for a reckless stamp on Flamengo’s Ayrton.
It was a moment that did little to help his case in the ongoing battle for the striker role.
While Jackson has a stronger Chelsea resume — 13 goals and six assists last season — this red card could give Delap more room to claim the spot as his own.
Mikel Weighs In
Former Chelsea star John Obi Mikel gave his thoughts on the striker showdown during post-match commentary on DAZN.
“They’re very similar in terms of style,” he said.
“Delap showed he can run in behind, link up well, and press — all the things you want from a forward.
It’ll come down to who performs better each game.”
A Work in Progress Up Front
Delap showed hunger and determination, particularly with one second-half run that nearly resulted in a goal before Flamengo’s Leo Pereira swooped in with a last-ditch clearance.
While he didn’t get on the scoresheet, he certainly staked a claim for more minutes.
Meanwhile, Jackson’s frustrating red card may have complicated things for him, at least in the short term.
What’s Next for Chelsea?
With the loss to Flamengo behind them, Chelsea now have one more group-stage match in the Club World Cup.
Maresca will have to decide whether to stick with the promising Delap or turn back to Jackson — assuming he’s available.
Either way, Chelsea’s search for a consistent No. 9 is clearly still in motion.