Enzo Maresca hints new Chelsea signing could start against Flamengo, ‘we will see’

However, Liam Delap and Dario Essugo were eventually brought on, with the former setting up Chelsea‘s second goal of the game.

The American media were impressed with Delap, who will now be hoping to make his first start for Chelsea when they take on Flamengo this Friday.

Enzo Maresca hints Liam Delap could start against Flamengo

Delap may very well get his wish after Maresca hinted that he would make changes for Chelsea’s next Club World Cup fixture.

Speaking in the build-up to his side’s 2-0 victory over LAFC, Maresca told Chelsea’s official app: “First of all, it’s a tournament and we have three games in less than ten days. So we need to rotate for sure.

“[For example] Liam (Delap) is not starting today, Nico (Jackson) is starting. The next game we will see, but for sure we will rotate players.”

It could be a fascinating battle between Jackson and Delap for the striker spot, with both men looking up for it.

Jackson also managed to register an assist at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Monday, reminding everyone that he still has a lot to contribute.

Hopefully, the competition between Jackson and Delap can bring the best out of both players. If it does, it will only benefit Chelsea next season.

Maresca has already spoken about Jackson and this new challenge the Senegal international faces, stating that he is “curious” to see how he responds.

Liam Delap’s impact against Los Angeles FC

Delap was not even on the pitch for half-an-hour, but the 22-year-old was extremely effective.

To go with his assist for Enzo Fernandez’s goal, Delap also managed to record two key passes. The England Under-21 international also completed the one dribble that he attempted.

There should be so much more to come from Delap, who will be able to make even more of an impact as a starter. He could be just that when Chelsea face Flamengo next as Maresca prepares to rotate his team.