Getting To Know: Max Delyfer

The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.

Next to take on the questions is highly-rated midfielder Max Delyfer.

The 18-year-old joined the Golden Boys in August 2022 following a successful trial period, having previously been involved in the youth set-up at Arsenal and gone on to feature for Isthmian League side Potters Bar Town.

Delyfer made his international debut for Cyprus’ Under-19s in November 2022, and as well as being an established member of Omer Riza’s Watford Under-21s squad, he was named on the bench for the first-team’s Carabao Cup clash against MK Dons at the start of 2022/23.

How would you describe your playing style?
I like to get on the ball as much as possible and dictate the play. I try to control games, show off my passing range and get the team from defence to attack while creating chances.

Your footballing idol?
Definitely Cesc Fàbregas. I based my game on him when I was younger, and I was an Arsenal fan growing up so that helps. I prefer the Arsenal Fàbregas over the Chelsea Fàbregas!

Biggest influence?
It has to be my dad. The amount of time he has spent driving me and taking me to all the sessions to get to this point - I could never repay him for that.

Most talented teammate?
I’d say George Abbott. He is a great leader, very solid at the back and good with his feet. He is the modern-day centre-back and is a great asset.

Favourite football memory?
The day I signed for Watford is 100 per cent, without a doubt, a great memory. Another one would be being on the bench in the Carabao Cup this season, and my international debut recently for Cyprus’ Under-19s has to be up there as well. They are the joint top three.

Your aims for the future?
I just want to keep working hard and trying to progress at Watford, and go as far as I can. I want to continue my work with the Under-21s and continue performing, and then hopefully push on to the first-team and really help out the club as much as possible.

Best advice you’ve received?
You just have to never give up, because an opportunity will always be around the corner. You have to make sure you’re always working hard, even if you don’t see the finish line ahead. Literally, in just a few days the whole situation could change, and you have to be ready for it.

Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I would be studying at a university in America right now. As a student I would probably be studying maths.

How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace: 70 - It’s an important part of being a midfielder.
Shooting: 80 - I reckon I’m decent from range.
Passing: 90 - My passing is by far my stand-out attribute.
Dribbling: 75 - I play off one or two touches.
Defending: 80 - It’s something which I have to do in my position. Off the ball is extremely important.
Physicality: 80 - In terms of endurance, that is a strong aspect of my game.
OVERALL: 86