In an exhilarating Champions League contest, the Blues’ young contingency put on a dazzling display, truthfully run Ajax 5-1. The young team displayed an average age of just 22 years and 163 days. That turned out to be the second youngest starting XI in the tournament’s history! As the game continued at Stamford Bridge, the promise of Chelsea’s academy players was on full display.
Our young Blues certainly stole the show! They made history, becoming the first team in Champions League history to have three different teenagers score in the same match. Marc Guiu, Estevao, and Tyrique George all found the back of the net. Their performance is a testament to the work Chelsea have done to develop young talent in high-pressure situations. Chelsea went on to a historic win during the match itself. This win represents a big moment for their academy, which year in and year out produces elite-level talent.
Standout Performances from Teenagers
Chelsea took the lead in the 18th minute when Marc Guiu tapped in from close range after a perfectly-placed pass. Estevao joined his teammate, scoring with a penalty converted from the very one he had been fouled on. Estevao’s performance was particularly noteworthy, as he demonstrated maturity beyond his years.
Tyrique George completed the flurry of Chelsea scoring, scoring the 5th goal in the match. As impressive as the trio’s contributions have been, what’s more important is the promise that they show to be difference-makers for Chelsea going forward.
Chelsea introduced debutant Reggie Walsh, who, at 17 years old, had been with the club since he was seven years old. At the same time, Ryan Kavuma McQueen, 16, stuck on the bench and did not play in this game.
“For me, he is very similar to Cole Palmer, who I had at a very similar age at Man City. Cole started to play wide because he needed to build his physicality and now he is playing inside. With Estevao, they are quite similar. Now he is playing wide but in the future I think he is more of an inside player. It’s exciting to see him.” – Enzo Maresca
Experienced Players Support Young Talent
The young stars shone brightly, and experienced midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo returned to the switching starting eleven logged. Their leadership provided both a calming influence and deep experience within the backline. Loudest of all, for the first time all season, was Caicedo, delivering an outrageous deflected strike from 25 yards that somehow made it past Ajax goalkeeper Remko Pasveer. Fernandez made his mark, scoring from outside the box after he had won a penalty earlier in the game.
Ajax’s veteran goalkeeper Pasveer, who turned 41 this week, was tested early and often. Yet even with all his experience, he was unable to contend with Chelsea’s insistent barrage. Ajax took the lead with a goal from Alfred Finnbogason set up by Wout Weghorst. He scored from the spot after Chelsea’s Tosin brought down Raul Moro.
A Promising Future for Chelsea
The game illustrated not just Chelsea’s attacking fluency, but their willingness to back young players. Estevao’s talent matched with his humility and ability to stay grounded despite burgeoning success has been pointed out by those around the club. Maresca pointed to Estevao’s character and desire to learn as crucial traits that’ll help foster his development.
Chelsea’s victory packs a strong punch. Their priorities are right in building for the long-term with their younger talent, all the while adding talented pros in the process. That mixture of youth and experience bodes well for Chelsea as they continue their first-ever Champions League campaign.
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