Chelsea's Boost Ahead of Aston Villa Clash: Estevao and Liam Delap Available as Maresca Provides Update
Chelsea have received a significant boost for their upcoming game against Aston Villa as Enzo Maresca confirms the availability of Estevao and Liam Delap. Read on to learn more about the latest updates ahead of the crucial clash at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have received a huge boost ahead of their crunch Premier League clash with Aston Villa after manager Enzo Maresca confirmed Estevao and Liam Delap are both available for Saturday’s game at Stamford Bridge. The Blues are looking to stretch their three-game unbeaten streak when they lock horns with Unai Emery’s visitors, who have won their last 10 games in all competitions.After a brief wobble which saw Chelsea go four games without a win across both the Premier League and the Champions League, Maresca’s side have managed to get back on track in recent weeks.Following their 2-0 league victory over in-form Everton on 13 December, the west Londoners secured their place in the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup with a 3-1 win over League One leaders Cardiff City three days later.The six-time league champions also found themselves 2-0 down to Newcastle United last Saturday, but second-half goals from captain Reece James and Joao Pedro earned their team a valuable point at St. James’ Park.However, Chelsea are set to receive a stern examination on Saturday afternoon when they play host to high-flying Villa, who are currently enjoying their best winning streak since 1914.Emery’s men, who last tasted defeat against Liverpool on 1 November, have put together a remarkable 10-game winning run which has seen them down the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United in the league, as well as Swiss duo Young Boys and Basel in the Europa League.Such is Villa’s scintillating run of form that they find themselves in third place in the Premier League, three points behind leaders Arsenal and seven ahead of fourth-placed Chelsea. They are also third in the Europa League standings, level on points with both leaders Lyon and second-placed Danish outfit FC Midtjylland.Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!And ahead of what is likely to be a mouth-watering encounter between the two sides, Chelsea head coach Maresca has revealed he will be able to call upon the services of both Estevao and Delap when Villa make the trip to SW6."Estevao is back and he is available for Saturday," Maresca told a pre-match press conference on Christmas Eve. "Estevao and also Liam Delap. They are both back. We didn’t know exactly how long Liam would be out for but he is back on Saturday, and we are happy to have both available."Delap has been absent since sustaining a shoulder injury in Chelsea’s 0-0 league draw with Bournemouth on 6 December, while Estevao missed his side’s last two games against Cardiff and Newcastle due to a small muscle problem.A summer signing from Brazilian side Palmeiras, Estevao has been in excellent form for Chelsea this season, scoring five goals in 21 appearances in all competitions.On the other hand, Delap has struggled with a series of injuries in what has been a difficult first season at Chelsea following his summer switch from Ipswich Town. The 22-year-old has scored just one goal in 2025-26 - against Barcelona in his side’s 3-0 Champions League win on 25 November.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingChelsea boss Maresca also confirmed Cole Palmer could play the full 90 minutes against Villa as the England international continues to build up his fitness following a lengthy spell on the sidelines with groin and toe injuries.The 23-year-old made his return as a second-half substitute in the 3-1 defeat at in-form Leeds United on 3 December, before starting the last three league games against Bournemouth, Everton, and Newcastle."I think Cole is ready to play 90 minutes, yes," Maresca added. "He played for an hour against Everton, then he did more than 70 minutes against Newcastle. So I think the progression is there, he’s feeling good and I think he could play for 90 minutes now."It will be a very tough game for us and we will have to be at our best because Aston Villa are playing very well. They have a clear way of playing and they are very organised both on and off the ball."They are full of confidence in this moment, but we are at home and we will be trying to get the three points as we always do. We will work hard and continue to grow."
Chelsea's Recent Form Resurgence
After a rough patch with four games without a win, Chelsea has turned things around with a 2-0 victory over Everton and a place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals. They showed resilience against Newcastle United to secure a valuable point and are now looking to continue their positive momentum against high-flying Aston Villa.
Aston Villa's Impressive Winning Streak
Aston Villa, led by Unai Emery, are enjoying their best winning streak since 1914 with 10 consecutive wins in all competitions. Sitting comfortably in third place in the Premier League and excelling in the Europa League, they pose a serious challenge for the Blues.
Return of Key Players
Maresca's confirmation of Estevao and Liam Delap's availability provides Chelsea with added firepower. Estevao's return from a minor muscle issue and Delap coming back from a shoulder injury bolster the squad as they prepare to face Villa's strong form.
Cole Palmer's Fitness Progress
Cole Palmer, sidelined with groin and toe injuries, is nearing full fitness and could potentially play the full 90 minutes against Villa. After recent appearances and building up match fitness, Palmer adds depth and quality to Chelsea's midfield options.
Maresca's Assessment and Expectations
Maresca acknowledges the challenge Villa presents but remains confident in his team's abilities. Highlighting Villa's organization and confidence, he emphasizes the importance of a strong home performance to secure all three points and continue Chelsea's climb in the table.
Looking Ahead
With key players returning and the team finding form, Chelsea's clash with Aston Villa promises to be an intriguing battle between two in-form sides. Fans can expect an exciting and high-quality match as both teams vie for crucial points in their respective campaigns.


