Chelsea have unveiled their highly anticipated 2025/26 scholarship class, a group that is already drawing significant attention due to its mix of heritage, talent, and record-breaking potential. Among the most talked-about names is Reggie Walsh, the 16-year-old midfielder who made history last season by becoming the youngest Englishman to start a European match for the Blues.
Walsh, who joined Chelsea at under-eight level, made an instant impression when he came off the bench in the Conference League semi-final against Djurgarden. His debut was marked by a spectacular long-range strike with his very first touch, instantly winning the admiration of fans and coaching staff alike. He followed up that performance with a full 90-minute display in the return leg, cementing his reputation as one of the brightest prospects in the academy. Head coach Enzo Maresca praised Walsh’s maturity, emphasizing that while he is still young and developing, his playing style perfectly suits the club’s philosophy.
Another name that stands out in this scholarship intake is Isago Silva, son of club legend Thiago Silva. The young defender, who can operate both as a left-back and centre-back, made his U18 debut in February during a 3-1 win over Leicester. Having joined the academy at U13 level following his father’s move from Paris Saint-Germain, Isago has impressed with his composure and versatility. He shares academy duties with his brother Iago, continuing the Silva family’s legacy at Cobham.
Ryan Kavuma-McQueen is another rising star. The 16-year-old forward has already been showcasing his talent at U21 level, scoring against both Manchester United and Ipswich Town. His breakthrough on the international stage came with a stunning hat-trick for England U15s against Morocco, highlighting his attacking instincts and big-game temperament.
The scholarship class also features Moroccan youth international Ibrahim Rabbaj, who captured headlines by helping his nation win the U17 Africa Cup of Nations. His crucial penalty in the final shootout against Mali demonstrated his ability to handle pressure, adding to Chelsea’s depth of international youth talent.
Freddy Bernal, a highly-rated England youth goalkeeper, remains a key part of Chelsea’s future plans, with the club recently rejecting a £1.25 million bid from Arsenal for his services. Other notable names in the class include Chris Atherton, Toby Bell, Jeremiah Berkeley-Agyepong, Calvin Diakite, Mathis Eboue, Chizaram Ezenwata, Jacob Hall, Charlie Holland, Lewi Richards, Joel Philbert, and Dante Waite.
With players like Walsh, Silva, Kavuma-McQueen, and Rabbaj leading the way, Chelsea’s academy continues to reinforce its reputation as one of the most promising in European football.
