Our Under-19s begin our Youth League campaign under Calum McFarlane in midweek, following in the footsteps of the men’s team and their UEFA Champions League schedule, as we face Bayern Munich in our first fixture in this competition since 2022.

As a club, we’ve enjoyed success in the Youth League, lifting the trophy twice, most recently in 2016. With that history in mind, there’s a real sense of excitement in the squad about returning to European action.

Our team for the Youth League will be made up of our Under-18s squad, bolstered by some of the younger members of the Under-21s. Ahead of Wednesday's clash, we spoke to Subuloye, who has been captaining Hassan Sulaiman’s Under-18s since the start of 2025/26.

How do you feel the start of your season has gone?

'I think it’s been really positive. For the Under-18s I've been wearing the armband, which has been a big honour. Wearing the armband gives me that extra bit of responsibility and it shows that the coaches trust me to lead the group. I’ve always tried to set an example on and off the pitch, but being captain makes you think even more about how you can support the boys and keep standards high.

'I think you’ve got to lead by example first of all. That means working hard every day, staying disciplined and showing the right attitude. But it’s also about communication - being there for the lads, encouraging them and making sure everyone feels part of the group.'

What is it like being one of the older players in the squad now with the first-year scholars being integrated into the squad?

'It’s a bit different this year because you realise the younger lads look up to you. When I was in their position, I always appreciated having older players who guided me, so now I want to be that person for them.

'The coaches have asked me to help set the standards and support the younger boys and I take pride in doing that. It’s not just about what happens on the pitch - it’s about helping them settle in, making sure they feel comfortable and showing them what it takes to do well here.'

We've just returned from the international break, has it given you time to reflect on your performances and the team’s progress?

'Yeah, it has. Breaks like that are good for looking back and seeing what’s gone well and what needs improving. For me personally, it’s been about trying to be as consistent as possible and adding little things to my game.'

With the UEFA Youth League coming up, how significant is this competition in academy football?

'It’s massive. Everyone knows the Youth League is one of the biggest competitions at this level, and it gives us the chance to test ourselves against the best young players across Europe.

'It’s something we’ve all been looking forward to. It’ll be a really good experience for the squad.'

What experiences do you expect the competition offer?

'On the pitch, you get to face different styles of football, which really challenges you and helps you develop. Off the pitch, travelling together, staying in hotels, preparing for big games - it’s all part of growing up as a footballer and learning how to handle different situations.'

How do you think the off-pitch experiences will help the players' development?

'They’ll be massive for us. It’s not just about the football, it’s about learning how to prepare properly, deal with pressure and represent the club in the right way.

'Being in those environments makes you grow up quickly and I think that’s something that will benefit all of us moving forward.'

What are you hoping for from your own performance in the competition?

'For me, it’s about being as solid as possible and doing my job for the team. I want to play with consistency, make sure I’m helping the side keep clean sheets and also contribute in terms of leadership on the pitch. If I can do that, I’ll be happy.

'It’s just the chance to play against top players from other countries. These are the kinds of games you dream of as a young player and it’s exciting to think about testing ourselves on that stage.'

Finally, do you have a message for the supporters ahead of this fixture?

'I believe we’ve got a strong squad and if we keep playing the way we have been, there’s no reason why we can’t do really well.

'Our aim has to be to go as far as possible and make everyone proud. Personally, I think if we compete in every game, stay disciplined and trust each other, then we can have a really successful campaign.'