The in-form midfielder recalls life growing up in Belgium, and remembers how it felt to sign for the Blues back in 2023…

What was the first game you attended?

Anderlecht against Standard Liege. A big game, the biggest in Belgium. It was a top atmosphere. I must have been seven or eight. It was pretty cool.

What was the first kit you owned?

I think it was a Brazil shirt with Ronaldo on the back and number nine.

Who was the first team you played for?

My grassroots team was called Woluwe-Zaventem.

Who was your first coach?

She was called Natalie. She gave me the opportunity to move to an elite club, Anderlecht.

Who was your first friend in football?

His name is Hugo Masaki. He plays for UD Leiria in Portugal now.

Who was the first team-mate you roomed with on an away trip?

I want to say Hugo as well!

Who was your first team debut against?

My first-team debut was with Man City against Wycombe Wanderers.

What was the first goal you scored?

That was for Southampton against Chelsea. I’m happy I have scored one for Chelsea now!

When was the first time you were recognised in public?

I must have been 15, when I was still at Anderlecht. It was in Brussels, and it was a very strange feeling! They must have been a big fan to know who I was.

What was your first emotion after signing for Chelsea?

Very proud, yeah. And I had all my family around, which made me even more grateful, happy, and excited.