Chelsea’s head coach, Enzo Maresca, addressed the comparison between Chelsea transfer target Liam Delap and Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin after Chelsea’s shock 2-0 defeat to Ipswich Town in their final game of 2024. Speaking to Football London, Maresca praised Delap’s unique attributes while analysing his team’s defensive struggles.
Delap, who was instrumental in Ipswich’s victory, was lauded for his physicality and relentless playstyle. Maresca explained:
“I think Liam [Delap] is a bit different to [Dominic] Calvert-Lewin in terms of skills. First-half, we conceded a penalty and then one or two more chances the same way—long ball to Liam, he defends the ball and shoots. In the second half, it was copy and paste.”
Delap’s performance against Chelsea showcased his ability to fight for the ball, hold off defenders, and create scoring opportunities, qualities Maresca acknowledged as different from Calvert-Lewin’s style.
The defeat, which Maresca attributed to defensive errors and Ipswich’s hunger, marked a disappointing end to Chelsea’s year. Despite dominating possession, Chelsea failed to capitalise, while Ipswich capitalised on Chelsea’s lapses to secure the win.
This performance adds weight to Delap’s growing reputation and Chelsea’s interest in him, as the club looks to bolster their attacking options. However, Maresca’s candid remarks also underscore the areas Chelsea must improve to compete consistently at the top level.
