Chelsea’s first season under Enzo Maresca delivered a clear message — the rebuild is working. A fourth-place Premier League finish secured Champions League football, while a Europa Conference League triumph capped off a resurgent campaign.
The club achieved all this with the youngest starting XI average in Premier League history at just 24 years and 36 days, and more young talent is on the way. Liam Delap, a standout at Ipswich Town, is joining the fold alongside South American sensations Estevao Willian and Kendry Paez. Sporting CP’s Geovany Quenda is also expected to arrive next year.
Delap, at 22, is the eldest of the incoming group and could feature in Chelsea’s Club World Cup campaign starting 16 June against Los Angeles FC. Former Blue John Obi Mikel will be among the broadcast team covering the tournament.
But Chelsea aren’t done recruiting. The club previously explored a move for Alejandro Garnacho and maintain interest in Kobbie Mainoo — two of Manchester United’s top prospects. While Garnacho’s future is uncertain following criticism of manager Ruben Amorim, Mainoo’s dip in form has left his situation in flux amid Old Trafford chaos.
Mikel believes both players would thrive at Stamford Bridge, praising Garnacho’s threat and urging patience on defensive issues that can be coached. For Mainoo, Mikel noted his downturn may be more about the United environment than his actual talent.
With Chelsea’s young squad creating a humble, ego-free environment, Mikel sees the club as the perfect destination for young stars ready to take the next step. He credits Maresca’s strong character and clear vision for fostering that atmosphere.
The signing of Delap signals a new direction up front, ending hopes of a Victor Osimhen arrival — someone Mikel had championed. Delap chose Chelsea over offers from Manchester United and Arsenal, a move Mikel sees as evidence of Chelsea’s growing stature.
Nicolas Jackson remains the main striker after scoring 30 goals over two seasons. Despite past criticism, Mikel insists he supports Jackson, emphasizing the need for competition rather than replacement.
Drawing on his experience alongside elite forwards like Drogba and Anelka, Mikel highlighted how healthy rivalry benefits the whole squad. He hopes Delap pushes Jackson to new heights and sees the new arrival as someone who can grow quickly in Chelsea’s winning setup.
Mikel concluded that while Osimhen may not have come, Chelsea’s direction is clear — invest in talent, create competition, and keep building on their youth-led success.