Chelsea have received some good news on the injury front just before Christmas. Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed that both Estevão Willian and Liam Delap will be available for the Premier League match against Aston Villa on December 27 at Stamford Bridge in London.
The young Brazilian winger Estevão, often called Messinho, has been out for the last two games with a small muscle problem. He missed the win over Cardiff and the draw at Newcastle. But he returned to training this week. Maresca said he is ready to play.
The 18-year-old has impressed in his first season at Chelsea. He has made over 20 appearances across all competitions, scoring five goals and providing assists.
Liam Delap, the 22-year-old striker who joined from Ipswich in the summer for around 30 million pounds, is also back. He dislocated his shoulder early in the 0-0 draw against Bournemouth on December 6.
Marcos Senesi landed on him awkwardly, and he had to come off after 31 minutes. Doctors thought it might keep him out longer, but the injury was not as bad as first feared. Delap has missed five games. He has scored once for Chelsea so far and is still looking for his first Premier League goal in blue.
Maresca spoke about the returns in his press conference on December 24. “Estevão is back. He is available for Saturday, and also Liam Delap,” he said. When asked if Delap’s recovery was quicker than expected, the manager replied no. They never had a clear timeline, but both players are fit now. He sounded pleased to have them as options.
Cole Palmer gets a mention too. The England midfielder has been managing a groin issue, but Maresca thinks he can now play a full 90 minutes if needed. Palmer has been key this season, and his minutes have been building up gradually.
This match at Stamford Bridge is a big one. Chelsea sit fourth in the Premier League table with 29 points. Aston Villa are third with 36 points. Villa come into the game in great form. They have won their last 10 matches in all competitions. A win for them would make it 11 in a row, matching a club record from way back.
Unai Emery’s side look strong in the title race. They are just a few points behind the leaders. Chelsea want to close that seven-point gap and stay in the top-four hunt. A home win would help a lot, especially with the festive schedule being busy.
Fans in London searching for Chelsea team news will be happy about these returns. Estevão brings speed and flair on the wing. Delap adds physical presence up front, even if Joao Pedro has been doing well lately in that role.
Chelsea has a solid home record this season. They score regularly at Stamford Bridge and keep things tight at the back. But Villa are tough opponents right now. Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers are in good shape for them.
Maresca knows it will be hard. He praised Villa and Emery in the press conference. The Blues need to be at their best to stop Villa’s winning run. Other players like Romeo Lavia and Levi Colwill are still out longer term. But getting Estevão and Delap back is a real lift. Palmer being fully fit helps too.
The game kicks off on Saturday afternoon. Many expect a close contest. Chelsea supporters hope the returning players can make the difference. This top-four battle could shape how both teams end 2025. Villa want to keep pushing for the title. Chelsea aim to build momentum going into the new year.
If you follow Premier League news in London, this is one to watch. Stamford Bridge should be full, and the atmosphere loud. Maresca has more options now on the bench or even to start. Estevão might come in for someone on the flank. Delap could get minutes late if needed.