By [Stephen]
December 19, 2025
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has offered a significant boost to the Blues’ hopes over the busy festive period, expressing strong confidence that striker Liam Delap will be available for selection again following the Christmas break. The update comes as Chelsea prepares for crucial Premier League and cup fixtures during one of the most demanding stretches of the season.
With Chelsea gearing up for an away trip to Newcastle United this weekend, Delap remains sidelined due to a shoulder injury sustained in early December during a goalless draw against Bournemouth. The 22‑year‑old had to be withdrawn early in that match after an awkward challenge left his shoulder in discomfort, compounding a frustrating run of fitness setbacks this term. Progressing Well, Targeting Post‑Christmas Return
In his latest pre‑match press conference, Maresca provided the latest clarity on his forward’s recovery timeline. While Delap will miss the upcoming clash at St James’ Park, the Italian coach indicated that the striker is progressing well in his rehabilitation and is likely to return to action in the final week of December.
“Liam Delap and Estevao Willian are probably available for the game against Aston Villa on December 27,” Maresca said, reflecting optimism about his squad’s fitness prospects. “Since Liam’s injury, we didn’t know exactly for how long, but he is progressing very well.”
Delap’s expected return date falls just after Christmas, meaning he could be ready to feature in one of the season’s most pivotal fixtures for Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The festive schedule traditionally places enormous physical demands on Premier League squads, and having Delap back in the fold will provide Maresca with more attacking options.
A Season Interrupted by Setbacks
Delap’s campaign with Chelsea has been one of both promise and frustration. The former Ipswich Town forward arrived in the summer on the back of an impressive season, but injuries have limited his impact at Stamford Bridge. After missing significant early‑season action with a hamstring problem, he suffered the recent shoulder injury that has kept him out for most of December. GistReel
His absence has put extra pressure on the Blues’ attacking unit, with fellow forwards such as João Pedro and Cole Palmer carrying the goal‑scoring burden in recent weeks. Delap’s return, therefore, promises not only a boost in depth but a potential tactical shift as Maresca looks to balance energy and creativity up front.
Context: Chelsea’s Squad Fitness Picture
Delap is not the only one pushing for a December return. Winger Estevao Willian, sidelined with a muscle issue, is also expected to be on course for a post‑Christmas comeback. However, Chelsea’s injury concerns extend to other key players such as Romeo Lavia and Levi Colwill, who remain out of contention as the calendar year draws to a close.
Maresca’s upbeat assessment of his squad’s health will be welcomed by Chelsea supporters, especially as the club seeks to maintain momentum across multiple competitions. The period immediately after Christmas often proves decisive in the Premier League title race and top‑four battle, and a fully fit Delap could prove pivotal in those outcomes.
Looking Ahead
As the Blues travel to Newcastle and then turn attention to their home clash with Aston Villa, Maresca’s confidence in Delap’s return is a reminder of the roller‑coaster nature of Premier League seasons. Managing injuries, integrating key players back into the squad, and maintaining performance levels through intense scheduling are all part of the challenge facing Chelsea in 2025–26.
For now, Maresca’s message is clear: progress is being made, and Delap is on track to rejoin the Blues’ attacking arsenal once the festive fixtures have passed.