Badiashile became a dad last year, not long before suffering an injury in training in December 2024 that would rule him out of action for several months.

Of course, being a father puts a different perspective on life, and for our centre-back that was beneficial to his mental state during those long hours of recovery on the path to full fitness.

‘This injury was the easiest to handle because I had my son there, which made it easy to refresh my head,’ Badiashile tells us. ‘It’s good to be a dad in this type of moment.’

When he was fit again, it meant being part of a squad that was travelling across Europe - and indeed America during the Club World Cup - meaning prolonged periods away from his young son.

‘Sometimes it’s difficult to be far from your family, but it’s part of the job,’ he acknowledges.

‘I am used to being away from my family because of football now, so it’s easier than it was at the beginning.’

Last Christmas, Badiashile’s injury meant he was undergoing rehabilitation at Cobham and not on the road with the team. That allowed the 24-year-old to enjoy more quality time with his loved ones and his son than he might normally.

This Christmas period, with his boy now past his first birthday, Badiashile is expecting the festive feeling to be that bit richer in his household.

‘It’s going to be a different Christmas, I thin,k because he understands life more now!’ jokes Badiashile.

‘It’s always a good feeling to be with my family, so nothing has changed having a child in this way. I just try to enjoy every moment.

‘For sure it will be a good day to enjoy with my family and my son.’

Chelsea Foundation will be hosting 'Magic of Blue' collection points ahead of our home games in the run-in to Christmas for supporters to donate gifts. All gifts need to be in their original packaging and we are not able to accept food or drink items. Items welcome for donation include:

- Soft cosy blankets
- Unisex warm socks/Slipper socks (with grip bottoms)
- Gloves/Mittens/Hats/Scarves
- Craft kits/Puzzles/Crossword books
- Photo albums/Notebooks/2026 diaries and calendars
- Christmas decorations

Supporters are also able to donate money to support those experiencing loneliness at ChelseaFC.com/MagicOfBlue. So help support Chelsea FC Foundation by donating or sharing with your friends.