Kaiden Wilson and his Chelsea Under-21s team-mates will kick off our Premier League International Cup campaign this Saturday, when we welcome Dinamo Zagreb to Kingsmeadow. The squad are eager to make a strong start in a group featuring top-level European opposition.
Calum McFarlane’s side return to action this week as our Under-21s step back onto the pitch following a brief pause during the October international break.
The Blues entered the break on a high, buoyed by a hard-fought 1-0 win away at Burnley. It was Jesse Derry’s 86th-minute header that secured all three Premier League 2 points, providing a timely boost in confidence ahead of the next phase of the season.
Several members of the squad left Cobham to represent their countries during the international break. Meanwhile, others stayed behind to continue their development at the training ground, including defender Wilson. Now, the team is back together and focused on the Premier League International Cup, ahead of Chelsea’s first appearance in this season's competition.
Wilson is no stranger to the European stage. He featured in last season’s tournament, where the Blues produced impressive performances, including a commanding 4-0 win over Anderlecht and a tough 2-1 victory against Real Sociedad. Despite those high points, the team did not progress beyond the group stage. They are determined not to let that happen again.
'Everyone went into the international break buzzing,' said Wilson. 'We were really happy. We needed a win and it came at the perfect time. It was right before the break and ahead of a big game on Saturday. It gave us momentum and a good feeling in the group.
'The international breaks are good. It’s always nice to switch off from football, take a bit of time for yourself and reset. At the same time, you need to stay focused. You’ve got to come back into training sharp, work hard and be ready to go again.'
Since the start of the 2025/26 campaign, Chelsea Under-21s have shown strong unity both on and off the pitch. Wilson, now one of the more experienced players in the squad, has welcomed the arrival of a younger group this season, which has even included schoolboys on some occasions.
'Yeah, I’d say I’m one of the older ones now,' the 19-year-old admitted. 'It’s been a challenge, but a good one. I’m trying to be more of a leader, but I also learn a lot from the younger lads. We bounce off each other.
'Physically and mentally, it’s been fine for me. I don’t mind the schedule much, but some of the younger boys are still getting used to it. It’s about getting used to less rest and games coming in quick succession. Personally, I’ve been coping well.
'There has been a real connection and togetherness that has helped the squad grow and perform consistently.
'The vibe in the squad is really good. We’re always joking around and having fun. I believe that definitely helps when we step onto the pitch. The bond we have off the pitch makes things feel natural when we’re out there playing.
'Overall, I think that’s what drives us to push hard and win every game. We all want to do it for each other. We’re one team.'
Wilson has been a consistent presence in McFarlane’s defence this season, with eight appearances already across all competitions. As the fixture list continues to unfold, his focus remains on maintaining consistency and pushing for further improvement.
'If someone hasn’t seen me before, I’m a quick, aggressive defender. I’m not afraid of a challenge,' he continued.
'Over the break, I’ve been focusing on individual things, details I can improve on, while also making sure I got the rest I needed. I’ve been working on my weaker foot and I think it’s come a long way.
'Calum’s a really good coach. He puts a lot of time into us outside of training as well, which helps on the pitch. You really feel his belief when you play and that gives you the confidence to perform.
'I think I’ve started the season well, hit the ground running. Now it’s about building on that and staying consistent.'
Alongside league action, Wilson has gained valuable experience by featuring against senior League One and League Two sides through the EFL Vertu Trophy. That exposure, coupled with international competition, provides the perfect platform for growth as the team aim to take the next step.
Chelsea have been drawn in Group C for the Premier League International Cup, alongside Dinamo Zagreb, Benfica, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Sociedad. It’s a strong line-up that offers a unique opportunity to face top European academies.
'I’m excited,' he smiled. 'Playing against international teams is always a great test. You don’t get that challenge every week, so it’ll be something different and really good for our development.
'European styles are different. The pace, structure and approach to the game all change. You have to adapt quickly and stay sharp. That’s what makes this competition so valuable for us.
'If you get a win in that first game, it gives you confidence and momentum going into the rest of the group stage. It sets the tone.'
Saturday’s opener against Dinamo Zagreb will take place at Kingsmeadow, the home of our Under-21s. Tickets remain available and Wilson hopes to see strong support from the stands to help drive the team on.
'Every bit of support makes a massive difference. It’s always special to play at Kingsmeadow, but having fans and family in the stands gives you a real lift.
'It means a lot to see your support. It would be great to see as many faces down there as possible. It’s a chance to show what the next generation of Chelsea talent can do.'
Get behind the boys!
Supporters still have time to secure tickets here for our first Premier League International Cup fixture against Dinamo Zagreb at Kingsmeadow, kicking off at 2pm. Tickets are free for all season ticket holders (both men's and women's teams), members, and those aged under 20. General sale tickets are priced at £4.