Why the Conference League Trophy Could Be the Mark of Chelsea's New Golden Era

How did Chelsea win the Europa Conference League trophy?

The UEFA Conference League trophy for the 2024-2025 season is Chelsea's first title in three years under the new ownership of Todd Boehly. The title was secured after the Blues initially fell behind Real Betis in the final match, held on Kmais (29/5/2025) in the early hours of WIB.

Chelsea rampaged in the second half, ultimately winning 4-1. "I have often said this season, this tournament is something we must win," said Chelsea's right-back and captain, Reece James.

In that match, former Real Madrid midfielder Isco showcased his playing vision with Betis. Surrounded by two Chelsea players, Isco was still able to think calmly before passing the ball to Abde Ezzalzouli, who then scored from inside the penalty area.

All of Chelsea's efforts to score an equalizing goal in the first half were thwarted. Under the guidance of Manager Enzo Maresca, Chelsea is a highly disciplined team in the process of building attacks. They are not the typical team that tends to rely on direct balls forward, but rather patiently build their attacks from the back.

Maresca's decision to include James in the second half proved to be effective. James's presence allowed Chelsea to be more composed while in possession of the ball. On the other hand, Betis began to physically weaken. As a result, they were unable to maintain the pressing intensity as they had in the first half.

Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer also gained momentum to change the final outcome of the match. With physical endurance and stamina beginning to wane, Palmer's movements were difficult for the Betis defenders to stop. Fernandez contributed one goal and one assist, while Palmer provided two assists.

Who is Liam Delap, Chelsea's new striker?

After finishing in the top five of the English Premier League and winning the Conference League, Chelsea is now looking ahead to the next season. They have reached an agreement with Ipswich Town to acquire the 22-year-old forward, Liam Delap.

Delap has become the target of many clubs in recent weeks, including Manchester United and Newcastle United. Among the numerous clubs, Chelsea has succeeded in winning the competition. The player prioritizes "The Blues" partly due to the factor of competing in the Champions League next season.

According to The Athletic, Friday (30/5/2025) WIB, Delap is in the final stages of completing a personal contract with Chelsea. The summer transfer window will open earlier this time, starting from June 1, to accommodate the needs of the Club World Cup. Chelsea is participating in that tournament.

Delap, who scored 12 goals, is the only player under 23 years old to achieve double-digit goals in the English League during the 2024-2025 season. "In terms of numbers, he has done something fantastic. Additionally, he also has a distinctive playing style and fighting spirit," said Chelsea Manager Enzo Maresca.

The character of Delap will complement the creative midfielder Cole Palmer, who requires a sprinter figure at the opponent's defensive line. If Delap can score double-digit goals with minimal support, he should be able to thrive even more when supported by Palmer and his teammates.

In the Ipswich-style counterattack scheme, Delap showcased his advantages. The England U-21 national team player possesses a driving force akin to a locomotive when running with or without the ball. The robust player is very difficult to stop, especially when at full speed.

Why is Enzo Maresca often compared to Pep Guardiola?

Italian manager Enzo Maresca helped Leicester City to promotion to the Premier League. The former Juventus man was Guardiola's right-hand man when City won the treble, including their first Champions League trophy, in the 2022-23 season.

After assisting Guardiola, Maresca helped Leicester City become the champion of the English Championship League 2023-2024 in order to return to the English Premier League. In his first season coaching in the top tier of English competition, Maresca was able to maximize the great potential of Chelsea's young players.

Together with Maresca, Chelsea was once considered a contender for the English Premier League title, especially after recording seven consecutive victories across all competitions at the end of last year. However, at that time, he remained humble by stating that his team was not ready to be champions this season. This was proven to be true, as Chelsea could only finish in fourth place at the end of the season.

He believes that his team is still in the process of rebuilding strength after a change in ownership regime and several instances of managerial changes. He is the fifth manager of Si Biru in the last three years, following Graham Potter, Bruno Saltor, Frank Lampard, and Mauricio Pochettino.

"Supporters can dream and think. However, as a club, squad, players, and coaching staff, we must be realistic. There are many things we still need to improve regardless of the current winning streak," said Maresca.

Why is Cole Palmer called a unique figure who is second to none in the Premier League?

Chelsea forward, Cole Palmer, is beginning to be compared to legendary players, ranging from Dennis Bergkamp to Robin van Persie. He showcased his brilliance through his creativity and two assists against Real Betis in the Europa Conference League final.

He even once made a special record, namely four goals in 20 minutes, when Chelsea won over Brighton & Hove Albion, 4-2, at home, Saturday (28/9/2024). Never before has a player been able to create a quatrick in just one half throughout the Premier League.

Praise has come from various corners. One of them is from former England national team striker, Theo Walcott. "He has developed rapidly at Chelsea. You cannot overlook him in any team. He possesses skills akin to Bergkamp and Van Persie. They are certainly not (a comparison) that is bad," he said.

"Cold Palmer," as he is nicknamed, seems to have a knack for scoring goals. He seeks positioning through off-the-ball movement, then executes "coldly" as seen in the first and fourth goals. Penalties and free kicks also remain his specialties.

The most remarkable aspect of Palmer is his instinct for scoring goals and efficiency. It can be said that Palmer is currently the player with the best performance trend. He has created a total of 15 goals and 12 assists for Chelsea across various competitions this season. His opponents are even in awe of him.

"He's a special player. Unstoppable. There aren't many players like that in the league," said Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler.