Chelsea Striker Nicolas Jackson to Miss 2025/26 Premier League Opener vs Crystal Palace Due to Three-Match Ban
Chelsea FC will begin the 2025/26 Premier League season without striker Nicolas Jackson, who is set to serve a three-match domestic suspension following a red card received against Newcastle United in May 2025, according to a report from football.london.
The ban rules Jackson out of Chelsea’s season opener against Crystal Palace on August 17, 2025, compounding an earlier two-game suspension in the FIFA Club World Cup for a reckless challenge on Flamengo’s Ayrton Lucas. The FIFA disciplinary committee classified the tackle as “serious foul play,” extending his absence from crucial matches and raising questions about his discipline.
Liam Delap Emerges as Chelsea’s Surprise Star
While Jackson’s absence poses a challenge for new head coach Enzo Maresca, recent signing Liam Delap has stepped up with standout performances in the Club World Cup 2025. The £30 million striker, signed from Ipswich Town, scored in Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Esperance Tunis and provided an assist in a 2-0 victory against LAFC.
Delap, 22, boasts a 17.7% shot conversion rate—outperforming Jackson’s 13.2%—according to Opta Analyst, making a strong case for leading the line in the upcoming Premier League matches.
“We expected the process to be quick with Liam because he knows how we play,” Maresca told reporters, praising Delap’s seamless integration into Chelsea’s attacking system.
Jackson’s Future at Chelsea in Doubt
At 24, Nicolas Jackson now faces increased pressure, not only from the rise of Delap but also due to lingering interest from Juventus and Napoli. However, both Serie A clubs reportedly fall short of Chelsea’s £50 million+ valuation, according to Sky Sports.
Despite scoring 10 Premier League goals last season, Jackson underperformed his 12.3 expected goals (xG) and has been criticized for his inconsistency and disciplinary issues. Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel recently urged the Senegalese striker to “embrace the competition” posed by Delap.
Chelsea’s Summer Transfer Window Signals Major Attacking Overhaul
Chelsea's aggressive activity in the 2025 summer transfer window reflects a broader strategy to revamp their attack under Maresca. The club has spent £225.5 million so far, bringing in:
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Jamie Gittens (£50 million)
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Joao Pedro (£60 million)
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Estevao Willian (£51 million)
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Liam Delap (£30 million)
In addition, Chelsea are pursuing Victor Osimhen in a deal that could reach £84.5 million, signaling intent to build a dominant frontline.
With Enzo Fernandez sidelined by a head injury and five academy players released, Delap’s emergence offers a glimmer of hope ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League opener.
As Chelsea vs Crystal Palace approaches, fans will be watching to see whether Liam Delap can continue his red-hot form and become a key figure in Maresca’s tactical plans—especially in Jackson’s absence.