Liam Delap Confident Chelsea Can Compete at the Highest Level
Liam Delap wasted no time making an impression at Chelsea. After signing from Ipswich Town in June, the young striker immediately joined the squad on their trip to the United States for the FIFA Club World Cup. That journey turned into the perfect bonding experience for Delap and his new teammates, and it also gave him the chance to show why Chelsea invested in his talent.
Delap made his debut against Los Angeles FC, where he set up a goal with an assist. He then scored his first Chelsea goal against ES Tunis and went on to feature in the round of 16, quarter-finals, and the final. By the end of the tournament, Chelsea lifted the trophy and earned the title of world champions.
Pre-Season Preparations After Club World Cup Glory
Chelsea’s success in the United States cut their pre-season shorter than usual. The squad returned to Cobham on August 4 and played friendlies against Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan to prepare for the Premier League opener against Crystal Palace.
Delap admitted that the situation feels unusual but made it clear that Chelsea will not let it become a setback. “It’s a special feeling to be world champions, but it also brings new pressure,” he said. “Teams will fight harder against us, but we have the mindset to compete and prove how good we are.”
First Stamford Bridge Experience
The 22-year-old striker got his first taste of playing at Stamford Bridge during the friendlies. He celebrated his first goals in front of the home fans with a brace against AC Milan, a moment that fueled his hunger for the upcoming season.
Delap wasn’t the only new face who shined. Estevao and Joao Pedro also found the net during pre-season, while Jamie Gittens, who joined from Borussia Dortmund, showed his potential with strong performances.
Competition Within the Squad
Delap praised his fellow summer arrivals and highlighted how much quality they add to the squad. “They are top players, and they’ll bring a lot of joy and exciting football to the team,” he said. He also pointed out that competition within the squad will push everyone to perform at their best.
“The team has incredible depth. In big clubs, you need that competitive edge to fight for trophies. I have to give everything, they have to give everything, and together we’ll make Chelsea even stronger.”
Looking Ahead
As the new Premier League season approaches, Delap’s confidence and determination reflect the spirit inside Chelsea’s camp. With new signings settling in quickly, young talent stepping up, and the motivation of being world champions, the Blues look ready to challenge for silverware on all fronts.
