Chelsea's promising start to the 2025/26 Premier League season has been tempered by a significant setback, as head coach Enzo Maresca revealed that striker Liam Delap could be out of action for six to eight weeks following a hamstring injury sustained during their 2-0 victory over Fulham on August 30, The 22-year-old forward, who has been a key figure in Maresca's tactical setup, limped off after just 15 minutes in the match, clutching his right hamstring after chasing a ball over the top.
Maresca, speaking to TNT Sports post-match, provided a candid update on the injury: "Liam Delap is expected to be out for 6 to 8 weeks because of this type of injury. He elaborated in his press conference, noting, "Injury doesn't look good. He was full speed, hamstring, so that requires weeks. I've just come here for the press conference, we will see if we take any decision. This timeline means Delap could miss up to two months, including crucial fixtures in the Premier League, domestic cups, and potentially early European commitments, dealing a blow to Chelsea's attacking depth.
🗣️ "The first-half today was not good enough... I think in the second-half we completely dominated the game."
— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) August 30, 2025
Enzo Maresca shares his verdict on Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Fulham and provides an update on Liam Delap’s injury.#beINPL #CHEFUL #CFC pic.twitter.com/12LWD5nvQv
Delap, signed from Manchester City for ÂŁ20 million earlier in the summer, had quickly integrated into the squad, praised by Maresca for his physicality and ability to make runs in behind defenses. In contrast to fellow new signing JoĂŁo Pedro, who excels in tight spaces, Delap's style provided a complementary option in Maresca's fluid front line. His absence leaves Chelsea light up top, especially with the transfer window closing on the same day as the injury announcement, limiting options for immediate reinforcements.
The injury has immediate ripple effects on Chelsea's transfer plans. Notably, it led to the abrupt cancellation of Nicolas Jackson's proposed loan move to Bayern Munich. Jackson, who had traveled to Germany for a medical, was recalled amid fears of depleted striker options, leaving the Senegalese forward reportedly "angry" and determined not to return. This development underscores the fragility of Chelsea's squad amid a busy schedule, with Maresca now relying on Pedro, Jackson, and potentially younger talents to fill the void.
For Delap, this setback comes at a pivotal time in his career. The England U21 international had been building momentum after a productive loan spell at Ipswich Town last season, where he scored eight goals in 31 appearances. His physical presence and goal-scoring instincts were seen as vital to Chelsea's ambitions of challenging for top honors. Fans and analysts alike will be hoping for a swift recovery, as hamstring injuries of this nature can sometimes extend beyond initial estimates if not managed carefully.
As Chelsea navigate this challenge, Maresca's comments hint at potential adjustments in the coming hours, possibly involving last-minute transfer activity or tactical tweaks. With the Blues sitting comfortably after early wins, including the Fulham triumph sealed by goals from Pedro and another, the focus now shifts to squad resilience. Delap's absence tests the depth built through Chelsea's aggressive summer recruitment, but it also opens doors for others to step up in what promises to be a demanding campaign.
