Before the October international break, there’s still plenty of Academy action in store, which you can watch exclusively on the Chelsea Official App and Website.

On Saturday, Hassan Sulaiman’s Under-18s travel north to face Manchester City in the Premier League Cup. The young Blues played out a thrilling 3-3 draw in our last outing in the competition, with Sol Gordon scoring a memorable hat-trick against Sheffield United at Cobham.

Then on Sunday, Calum McFarlane’s Under-21s continue our Premier League 2 campaign with a trip to Burnley. The Blues will be looking to bounce back and return to winning ways following a narrow 2-1 defeat to Stoke City last time out.

Ahead of the fixtures, we sat down with winger Kavuma-McQueen, who signed his scholarship with the club in July.

The 16-year-old has enjoyed an impressive start to the 2025/26 campaign, featuring regularly for the Under-21s and also making an impact in the UEFA Youth League - netting his first goal in the competition during our 5-2 win over Benfica.

What are your biggest strengths?

'I would say one of my biggest strengths is being a direct winger. I love getting on the ball, taking players on, and making things happen in the final third. Whether it’s creating chances or scoring goals, I always want to be involved and make an impact.

'This season has already been a positive one for me; I feel like I’ve started to grow a lot as a player. I’m becoming more confident every time I step on the pitch. I enjoy using my speed to beat defenders and drive forward. I think that’s something that really sets me apart.

'I also enjoy the physical side of the game. I’m not afraid to go into tackles and work hard off the ball. Giving my all and competing physically is something I take pride in. I would say it’s one of the parts of football I enjoy the most.'

What are you most looking forward to developing this season?

'Right now, I’m focused on improving every part of my game. There’s not just one area; I want to keep developing all-round, both technically and tactically.

'Being around the Under-21s and some of the older players has already helped me a lot. The way they train and the intensity they play with pushes you to step up. It’s been a great experience so far and I’m learning every day.

'As a winger, I want to keep contributing with goals and assists, but I also want to be someone who works hard for the team at both ends of the pitch. I’m working on improving my decision-making, my end product and my overall understanding of the game.'

Who would you say you look up to?

'A player I’ve always looked up to is Marcus Rashford. I really admire the way he plays out wide: he’s quick, direct and always a threat going forward.

'I enjoy watching how he takes on defenders and makes things happen. He’s definitely someone I try to learn from and take inspiration from when I’m on the pitch.'

Who are your role models?

'I’ve got a few, but the main two are Cristiano Ronaldo and Mohamed Salah. What they’ve both achieved in their careers is incredible.

'They’re both players who can change a game at any moment, and defenders always know they’re in for a tough time when they’re on the pitch. That’s the kind of impact I want to have. I want to be that player who steps up when it matters most.'

What do you enjoy doing away from football?

'When I’m away from football, the most important thing for me is to relax and recover properly. I really value spending time with my family. They mean everything to me and help keep me grounded and focused.

'Also, sometimes I play padel, which is a fun way to stay active and do something a bit different. A lot of the boys play golf as well, so that’s something I’d like to get into more. It’s good to have things outside of football that keep you balanced.'

Back the Boys!

Our Under-18s are in Premier League Cup action this Saturday as they take on Manchester City, with kick-off at 11am. The match will be streamed live on the Official Chelsea App and website.

On Sunday, our Under-21s continue our Premier League 2 campaign with a trip to Burnley. Kick-off is at 12pm at the Clarets’ training ground, and supporters can watch all the action live for free on the Official Chelsea App and website.