The Under-18s have commenced the 2025/26 season in impressive form, entering the September international break unbeaten in the Under-18 Premier League

The young Blues opened our league campaign with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Crystal Palace, followed by a commanding 6-1 win against Aston Villa at Cobham. Chelsea also showcased resilience in the Premier League Cup, securing a 3-3 draw with Sheffield United, highlighted by Sol Gordon's stoppage-time penalty to complete his hat-trick.

Reflecting on the early stages of the season, head coach Sulaiman praised the team's performances but emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards and building momentum as the season progresses.

Hass, how have you found the start of the 2025/26 campaign?

'I’ve really enjoyed the start of the season. It’s been great to get a proper look at all the players in our current squad.

'Naturally, we’ve had a number of boys progress into the youth team. Some I already knew from last season, but it’s also been valuable to see the Under-16s, and even some of the Under-15s, who spent time with us in pre-season. It’s been a fantastic opportunity to get eyes on them and assess their future potential.

'We’ve only had a handful of games so far, but the biggest positive has been seeing the overall potential of the group. Every year we welcome a new cohort and there’s always excitement about what they might bring. This season is about making sure we challenge them and get the very best out of them.'

Back in July, 16 youngsters signed their scholarships with the club. How have they adapted to Under-18s football so far?

'The new scholars have settled in really well. Quite a few of them were with us last season and many have been here for years as schoolboys. That means they already understand the standards and expectations of being an Academy player at Chelsea.

'The transition has been smooth, but of course Under-18s football is a step up. It’s a different challenge - playing for points each week, sometimes stepping up with the Under-21s and often being exposed to men's team training opportunities. All of that tests their potential and their character. It’s exactly the kind of challenge they need.'

When you talk about the expectations of being a Chelsea player, what values do you want to see from your group?

'As an Academy, our values are really important. First and foremost, we want the boys to be brave. Brave in possession and brave out of possession. Another key value is showing some edge. We want to see that edge in performances and in training.

'Competition drives standards. If we can push that competitiveness, it will help us achieve the best possible results while developing strong, resilient players.'

How important is the start of the season for setting the tone for the months ahead?

'The start of the season is always an important period for laying foundations. Of course, we want to win every game, but ultimately this phase is a pivotal part of the players’ learning.

'I look back to last season, we didn’t have a glamorous start, but by the end we finished strongly. The boys learned a lot about the physical, technical and tactical demands. This season, our second-years are helping the first-years to be mature and avoid the mistakes they once made.

'For me, pre-season and the early games have been about learning, growing and bonding - both for the players and the new staff. It’s all part of the transition.'

We’re now into the first international break of the season. How do you use this period as a coach?

'The international break is always a fantastic chance for reflection. For us, it’s a period to review pre-season and the early games.

'It also gives us time to work more closely with a smaller group of players, since many are away on duty. That allows for really bespoke, individual development work - both on and off the pitch. For those who represent their countries, it’s a huge opportunity. Playing international football stretches them. They face some of the best players abroad and it’s a real measure of where they are.

'When the boys come back, they bring new experiences and insights, which not only help their own game but also raise the level of the group.'

When the squad returns, what will your main priorities be?

'When the season resumes, our priority is always development. Everything we do at the Academy is about helping players improve as individuals. That development might be through analysis, technical work or tactical coaching.

'As a team, we want to make sure that we're patient in possession, we have control, we show the right connections in the right areas and we create attacking opportunities. At the same time, we want to be resilient, competitive and difficult to break down.'

Finally, what excites you most about this group of players?

'The most exciting thing about this team is the talent we have in the squad. When everything clicks, we’re capable of playing really exciting football.

'We saw glimpses of it in pre-season. We were dominating possession, showing control, creating fantastic chances and scoring some excellent goals. Knowing the potential of this group, and how good they can be when it all comes together, is what motivates me most.'

Watch all the action live

Our Under-18s return to action after the international break with an away London derby against Arsenal on Saturday 13 September, kicking off at 11am.

The match will be available to watch live on the Chelsea Official App and website. Supporters can follow all the action via our Arsenal vs Chelsea Under-18s Match Centre or by visiting the homepage shortly before kick-off.