The Chelsea Academy Class of 2023
Here we go again, then. It hardly seems like yesterday that we were welcoming the sixteen-strong class of 2022 but, after a year in which those players made significant strides in their first season as full-time footballers, it?s time to welcome another cohort of scholars into the academy.
The class of 2023 is a little different to most recent intakes in that the number of graduates coming through the Cobham system from the foundation phase ? Under-12 and younger ? is smaller than usual, with additional recruitment undertaken during the two years leading into this summer.
It is a group full of international experience and rich in quality, one that will immediately supplement Hassan Sulaiman?s youth team squad with fresh impetus. One or two among them played plenty of minutes at that level in 2022-23, meaning they will hope to kick on to make an impact with Mark Robinson?s Development Squad at some point over the coming months. Let?s meet them. Genesis Antwi, Defender
A right-back or centre-back by trade, Genesis has represented both England and Sweden at Under-16 level and made his Chelsea youth team bow last season. He has similar qualities to Fikayo Tomori at a comparable age, combining natural athleticism with a confidence and authority in defending, and being able to step out and drive play through the lines into midfield.
Leo Cardoso, Attacking Midfielder
One of two players signed from West Brom during their Under-15 season, Leo has represented both England and Portuga...
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