Progress made in such a short period of time Chelsea Football Club This season has been exceptional. After a few hot seasons and billions of pounds spent, they are finally playing in a way that reflects the money they have spent.
Under the new manager Enzo MarescaThe Blues are sitting comfortably Second in the Premier LeagueTwo points behind leaders Liverpool, although the Reds have a game in hand. The momentum is on Chelsea's side at the moment, having won their last five games and They are unbeaten in the last eight On the top flight.
The young players Chelsea have invested in have certainly stepped up this season more than ever, and the pieces are starting to fall into place.
Chelsea's best youngsters this season
He was the Blues' starting lineup for the 2-1 win over Newcastle United Their second youngest team by average age In the Premier League era. This puts into context what the inexperienced Mariska has to work with.
However, this does not define quality, and Chelsea's young players have certainly stepped up this season. One of their stars in 2024/25 was Nicholas Jackson. The 23-year-old striker has scored an impressive nine goals in the Premier League this season In 15 matchesHe also had three assists.
Another player who has stepped up and done well is Noni Madueke. The former PSV Eindhoven winger is having an exciting time this season, which is reflected in the fact that he is now an England international. He scored five goals and provided three assists in the First Division, After playing 15 matches. He also scored a hat-trick against Wolverhampton in a 6-2 win at Molineux Stadium.
Romeo Lafia is another one who excelled this term. It has been an interrupted season for the Belgian, who has struggled with injuries since his move to Stamford Bridge. However, it was lost He played nine matches in the Premier League In the heart of the midfield, and Jamie Redknapp has been full of praiseExplaining that he “did a very good job” with the Blues.
It's clear that Marisca believes in the young players at Stamford Bridge. Perhaps he will give another of the Blues' highly-rated players a chance this weekend against Everton, Josh Acheampong.
Why could Acheampong start against Everton?
Young defender Acheampong has been impressive when given the opportunity for Chelsea. I have Play three matches this season after making his first-team debut in the Premier League in 2023/24, although he has yet to appear in the Premier League this season, having only been seen Five minutes in the league Before today.
Reputable journalist David Ornstein He announced some good news to Chelsea fans last week. It is reported that the 18-year-old has agreed to sign a new four-and-a-half-year contract at Stamford Bridge. This is crucial for the Blues, who have already locked down a player Real Madrid wanted to sign, At least according to a report released in October.
The young defender was impressive for Maresca's side against Shamrock Rovers in the UEFA Conference League last Thursday. According to SovascorHe touched the ball 127 times, completed 101 of 107 passes and won eight of nine duels. He excelled on and off the ball.
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Acheampong vs Shamrock Rovers statistics |
|
|---|---|
|
Statistics |
number |
|
Touches |
127 |
|
Passes completed |
101/107 |
|
Passing accuracy |
94% |
|
He won ground duels |
6/7 |
|
Aerial duels won |
2/2 |
|
Won tackles |
3/3 |
|
The quirks are complete |
2/2 |
|
Statistics from SofaScore |
|
If the London-born defender gets the nod to start against Everton at the weekend, he could have a big job to play in keeping Elimane Ndiaye quiet. The Toffees striker has Two goals in the Premier League this season, including one in the 2-0 win over Ipswich.
Acheampong is described as an “outstanding” player. By football analyst Ben Mattinsoncould be vital in keeping the Toffees' talented No.10 calm. His obvious defensive talent, on display against Shamrock Rovers this week, could be crucial in stopping N'Diaye. Standing at 6ft 1, the defender is an imposing figure, and his strength in duels can make life difficult for the Everton man.
In terms of how he will fit into the team, Acheampong can play at centre-back or right-back. With Marc Cucurella suspended, Malo Giusto could move to left-back, meaning the 18-year-old could play at right-back and potentially go up directly against Ndiaye.
Starting Acheampong against the Toffees would be a bold move from Maresca. However, his belief in young players and the defender's obvious talent would not be a huge surprise if he were unleashed.
