The Blues progressed in style through the league phase, topping the table after an unbeaten run that showcased consistency and quality across all six matches. Now we take on PSV in our first knockout tie of this season's competition, which you can watch live for free on the Chelsea Official App and website.

Chelsea opened our Youth League campaign with an impressive away victory against Bayern Munich, before recording back-to-back home wins over Benfica and Ajax. A strong performance away to Qarabag followed, along with a hard-fought draw against Barcelona at Cobham. The league stage concluded with a convincing away win over Atalanta to secure the top spot.

One player who has stood out throughout the campaign is Mheuka, who has captained the side from the outset and led by example both on and off the pitch. The forward has featured in five matches, scoring five goals and providing two assists, including a memorable hat-trick in the 5-2 home victory over Benfica - a performance that underlined his impact on the European stage.

The 18-year-old’s form has not been limited to the Youth League. Mheuka has enjoyed an outstanding 2025/26 season across the Academy, playing a key role for the Under-21s, scoring 12 goals in 11 Premier League 2 appearances and underlining his natural goal-scoring instincts.

Attention now turns to the knockout phase of the Youth League, with Chelsea Under-19s set to host PSV Eindhoven, who finished 19th in the league phase after recording two wins, two draws and two defeats.

After training at Cobham ahead of the Dutch side's visit, Mheuka sat down to share his thoughts on the season so far, his leadership role and the challenge that lies ahead.

How have you found the season so far, both personally and as a team?

'It’s been really positive. As a team, we’re performing well and we’ve got big ambitions for the end of the season. Everyone is pushing each other every day, which helps keep standards high. Personally, I feel really fired up. I’ve come into this season confident, scoring goals and trying to help the team as much as possible whenever I’m on the pitch.'

How would you assess your UEFA Youth League campaign so far, now reaching the knockout stages?

'It’s been amazing. Playing against teams from across Europe is a completely different experience compared to domestic football. You’re tested in different ways every game. The performances and results have been strong and the boys have been brilliant throughout. Reaching the round of 32 shows how well we’ve done and how consistent we’ve been.'

You’ve made a big impact in the competition. How do you reflect on your own performances?

'I think I’ve done alright. A lot of it comes down to my team-mates. They put me in good positions and give me the service I need to make an impact in the final third. Everyone plays their part and I’ve managed to contribute with goals, which is always pleasing as a forward.'

You’ve worn the Under-19s' and Under-21s' captain’s armband this season. How has that responsibility shaped you?

'It’s been a new challenge but one I’ve really enjoyed. It’s helped me grow as a person, not just as a player. I’ve learned a lot about communication and responsibility. I try to lead by example, through my performances, my attitude and being vocal when needed. Every player is different, so it’s about understanding people and supporting them in the right way.'

When games get difficult, how important is togetherness?

'Togetherness is everything. When things get tough, we all know what’s required and we stay calm. There’s not much that needs to be said, we trust our quality and stick together. We’ve shown that throughout the competition, especially in tight moments, and that’s something we’ll keep relying on.'

'The Benfica game really stands out. Emotionally, it meant a lot. The way we worked together, the energy on the pitch and the performance as a whole were special. Moments like that are why we play football.'

How important are relationships off the pitch to performances on it?

'They’re massive. When you’re close off the pitch, it shows during games. The football flows better, everyone plays for each other and you can see that connection on the pitch. The results reflect that, and it’s been a big strength for us this season.'

Are there leaders you look up to and has being around Reece James influenced you?

'Definitely. I’ve always looked up to players like Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba because of their passion, mentality and leadership. Being around Reece James has helped a lot too. Watching how he leads, how he prepares and how he treats his team-mates has been really inspiring for me.'

What excites you most about the knockout stages, especially with PSV coming up?

'The pressure. Every game matters now and there’s no second chance. You have to perform because anything can happen in football. That’s what makes it exciting. I think the boys are ready to rise to that challenge.'

What do you want from your own performance in that game?

'Of course, goals - that’s always the aim for me. If I can affect the scoreline, that’s ideal. But if not, it’s about linking play, working hard and helping the team in whatever way I can to get the result.'

Do you have a message for the squad heading into the knockout stage?

'Let’s go and shine. Let’s play our football with confidence, stay consistent and show everyone why we believe we can go on and win this competition.'

And what would winning the UEFA Youth League mean to you?

'It would mean everything. Lifting the trophy as captain with this group would be incredibly special. I’d be so proud of every single one of the boys and of what we’ve achieved together.'

Don't miss the action!

Chelsea Under-19s’ game against PSV Eindhoven at Cobham on Tuesday afternoon will be available to watch live and free on the Chelsea Official App and website, via our match centre below or the homepage shortly before kick-off at 5pm UK time.