Chelsea have made yet another splash in the transfer market, but not everyone is convinced it’s the right move.
Liam Delap, who recently signed from Ipswich in a £30 million deal, made his debut in the Club World Cup – and while the performance wasn’t bad, some fans and pundits had a different name in mind.
Mikel Weighs In: Delap Isn’t Who Fans Were Hoping For
Former Chelsea star and club legend John Obi Mikel didn’t hold back when giving his thoughts during DAZN’s coverage of the team’s 2-0 win over Los Angeles FC.
For Mikel, Delap isn’t exactly the headline-grabbing striker Chelsea supporters were dreaming of.
“He’s not the guy the fans were hoping for,” Mikel said bluntly. “Let’s be honest—we all know who they wanted. Victor Osimhen.”
The Nigerian international was widely rumored to be Chelsea’s top target this summer, and fans were buzzing about the possibility.
But in the end, the club opted for a younger, less experienced option in Delap.
A Solid Debut, But Still Work to Do
Despite the lukewarm reaction from some quarters, Delap had a decent first outing.
In Monday’s match against LAFC in Atlanta, the 22-year-old showed flashes of promise, even notching an assist.
Mikel acknowledged the potential: “He’s young, he’s got time, and he made some really good runs behind the defense today.
I think he can become that guy if he keeps improving.”
Still, he added a note of realism: “I wish him all the best, but he’s got to prove himself quickly—especially at a club like Chelsea where expectations are sky high.”
Who’s the Real No. 9? Mikel Thinks Jackson Still Leads
While Delap has made a positive start, Mikel believes he won’t be the main man just yet.
That spot, he says, still belongs to Nicolas Jackson.
“Let’s not forget Nic Jackson,” Mikel reminded viewers.
“He’s got some work to do on his finishing, but I think he’ll still start the season as first choice.”
That said, Mikel sees healthy competition as key. If Jackson doesn’t deliver, Delap will get his chance to shine.
And with manager Enzo Maresca now at the helm, there’s bound to be a fresh look to the attack this season.
What’s Next for Chelsea?
Chelsea’s next Club World Cup match is set for Friday, when they take on Brazilian side Flamengo.
After that, all eyes will be on how Maresca juggles his forward options—and whether Delap can silence the doubters by doing what strikers are paid to do: score goals.