Another busy Academy campaign came to a close at Cobham as our Under-18s wrapped up the 2024/25 season, a year defined by both challenge and progress.

Under the leadership of Sulaiman, completing his second full season since taking charge in March 2023, a youthful squad demonstrated clear growth across multiple fronts. From performances on the pitch to moments of resilience and togetherness off it, the campaign demonstrated real development.

Finishing fourth in the Under-18 Premier League, there was a strong sense that this young team made real strides throughout the year. The Blues also reached the quarter-finals of the Under-18 Premier League Cup and competed in the FA Youth Cup and the Under-17 Premier League Cup. While silverware wasn’t secured, the season perhaps offered something even more valuable - experience, learning and signs of long-term promise.

'This season has certainly been one of growth,' began Sulaiman. 'We went into the year knowing it would be a challenge, but I don’t think any of us truly realised just how testing the early part of the season would be.

'Those opening weeks were tough. We faced some unexpected results and that really forced us, both staff and players, to step back and reflect on what we were doing and how we could improve.

'But as we always say, especially in Academy football, it’s not just about winning every match. It’s about what the players are learning, how they’re developing and how we’re preparing them for the future. Of course, we want to win, every player and coach wants that, but the key thing is performance and progression. From where we started to where we finished, I think we’ve seen clear steps forward.'

Across any season, there are turning points - moments that define the character of a group and serve as benchmarks for growth. For Sulaiman and his side, one of those moments came in February, with a memorable away win in the Midlands against Leicester City.

'There are always moments that stay with you across a season and that one was a standout,' he recalled. 'We travelled with an incredibly young team, mainly Under-16s, with even an Under-15 and an Under-14 involved.

'It was one of those games where, on paper, it looked like a huge challenge, but for us, it was also an opportunity to test our values and the depth of talent in the Academy.

'What made that day even more special was how the entire Academy came together. Coaches from younger age groups were on the touchline, supporting the team. It felt like a real Chelsea family moment.

'Everyone pulled in the same direction and we didn’t just show up, we performed. To go away, play with courage and win 3-1 was a massive achievement. That win gave everyone a lift and really underlined what we’re capable of.'

Throughout the season, Chelsea consistently fielded one of the youngest squads in the league. In total, 22 schoolboys made appearances at Under-18s level, highlighting the club’s ongoing commitment to early exposure and accelerated development for our young talent.

'I’m proud of every single one of the younger boys who made the step up,' Sulaiman continued. 'If you look back six or seven months, the transformation has been huge.

'Some of these boys had never played at this level before. They were still playing in their school leagues or in younger age groups but they came in, adapted quickly, worked hard and gave everything. That’s all we can ask for as coaches.

'The early exposure they’ve had this season will be invaluable. These experiences, playing tough games, being in high-pressure situations, travelling with the team, all of that will help shape them. The way they handled those challenges has been outstanding. It’s really exciting to think where this group could go in the next year or two.'

As the season winds down and the summer break draws near, there’s been a chance to pause and reflect at the Academy building in Cobham. That reflection doesn’t only focus on the players, but also shines a light on the tireless work of the staff behind the scenes.

'This season has certainly pushed us all, not just the players, the staff have had to adapt and grow too. I want to take a moment to really acknowledge the people around me who have made this season possible.

'Andy Ross and Jimmy Smith, our two assistant coaches, have been fantastic. We’ve spent hours bouncing ideas around, tweaking training plans, looking at ways to challenge the players. Jake Askew has done an outstanding job with the goalkeepers.

'Danny Torpey’s support across the physical side has been so important, particularly in the gym, where he’s helped the boys build strength and resilience.

'Josh Harfoot left us to work with the men’s team earlier in the season, which was a great move for him, but fortunately we were able to bring in Patrick Harvey. In his first year with us, he’s made a big impact. Most recently, we’ve welcomed Tom Mallett into the group, who’s been a positive addition and really bought into our way of working.

'We’ve had plenty of moving parts this season. Players coming in and out, changes to the squad, staff stepping into new roles, but what has stayed constant is the shared commitment to the boys. I can’t thank the team enough for that. Everyone stayed focused and kept the players at the centre of everything.'

Though the players are now winding down their training schedules ahead of a well-earned break, the focus behind the scenes has already shifted toward preparation for the 2025/26 season. The next chapter is on the horizon and there’s a sense of determination to continue building on the foundations laid down this year.

'There’s still work to be done,' Sulaiman concluded. 'But there is a real base here now. The group has grown, we’ve learned a lot and we’ve laid strong groundwork for what’s to come. Next season is another chance to keep pushing, keep developing and give our all again. That’s what it’s about. Always looking to improve and doing it together.'