Chelsea have been dealt a major early-season blow with striker Liam Delap sidelined until December after sustaining a hamstring injury in the 2-0 victory over Fulham before the international break.
The 22-year-old was forced off just 14 minutes into the clash at Stamford Bridge, with manager Enzo Maresca confirming that his recovery timeline is expected to last between 10 and 12 weeks. Although the England Under-21 international has avoided surgery, Chelsea’s medical staff are taking a cautious approach. The club hopes he could make a return in late November, potentially offering a boost in time for the festive fixture congestion.
Delap only joined Chelsea this summer in a £30m deal from Ipswich Town, where he enjoyed a breakthrough season last year, scoring 12 Premier League goals in 37 appearances. He has featured in all three of Chelsea’s opening league fixtures, and his injury now leaves a gap in Maresca’s attacking options.
Guiu Recalled, Pedro Favoured
In response to the setback, Chelsea immediately recalled 18-year-old Marc Guiu from his loan spell at Sunderland. The highly rated striker had only recently joined the Black Cats on a season-long deal, but with Nicolas Jackson sealing a £70.5m move to Bayern Munich, Maresca was keen to ensure he retained sufficient depth in attack.
“Right now, the only natural number nine we have is Marc [Guiu], while Joao [Pedro] can also play in that role,” Maresca explained. “Against Fulham we used Ty [George], but we need to manage the squad carefully.”
Pedro, who arrived from Brighton earlier in the window, is expected to lead the line in Delap’s absence. The Brazilian offers versatility and Premier League experience, though his deployment as a central striker leaves Chelsea somewhat reliant on his adaptability.
Palmer Nears Return
In more encouraging news, Cole Palmer is edging closer to a comeback after missing Chelsea’s recent victories over West Ham and Fulham with a groin issue. The 23-year-old returned to partial training earlier this week and could feature when Chelsea travel to Brentford on Saturday evening.
“Cole took part in the session yesterday for the first time, not the entire session,” Maresca said. “We will see this afternoon if he can make it. He is recovering well, but we need to manage him carefully because of the number of matches ahead.”
Palmer was a revelation for Chelsea last season, scoring 18 goals and contributing 13 assists across all competitions. His creativity and cutting edge will be vital as the Blues navigate this tricky period without Delap.
Off-Field Troubles
Away from injuries, Chelsea were also hit with troubling news on Thursday as the Football Association charged the club with 74 alleged rule breaches relating to agent payments between 2009 and 2022.
The allegations pre-date Maresca’s tenure, but they have raised fresh concerns over potential sanctions. Available punishments range from financial penalties to a transfer embargo or even a points deduction. However, given Chelsea’s reported co-operation during the investigation, insiders suggest a sporting punishment is unlikely.
Maresca, keen to focus on football, refused to be drawn into the controversy. “I know from the club that they are satisfied about the process,” he said. “Personally, I have nothing to add. I want to focus on the pitch, something I can control. The rest is not in my hands.”
Positive Start, Tough Challenges Ahead
Despite the turbulence, Chelsea’s season has begun promisingly. With seven points from their first three league games, Maresca’s side appear rejuvenated under his management. The Italian coach has won 43 of his 67 matches since arriving, and his tactical clarity has instilled belief within the squad.
Nevertheless, the coming weeks will test Chelsea’s resilience. Without Delap, Maresca must rely on a combination of youth and experience in attack, while Palmer’s reintegration must be carefully handled. Meanwhile, the looming FA charges provide a distracting backdrop.
As Chelsea prepare to face Brentford under the lights on Saturday, supporters will hope the return of Palmer and the emergence of Guiu can help offset the absence of Delap and maintain momentum in what already promises to be a demanding season.
