The Chelsea website have just put up a really nice interview with Chelsea Under-18s defender Saheed Olagunju ahead of the new season.
They focused on what it was like to make your way through the ranks at Chelsea. As always, it starts at home:
“All I can remember is that I always wanted to become a footballer. As soon as I could walk, I was kicking a football around the house with my older brothers and I instantly fell in love with the game,” the 17 year old explained.
Intense training for teenagers
Ok, it all smells like a bit of a PR exercise given there’s a lot of controversy about our current youth setup and the way that so many young players look keen to move away due to their pathway to the first team being blocked by new teenage signings arriving from all corners of the globe.
But still, it’s a really nice piece which gives you some insight on how things go down at the academy. We were particularly interested in what the youngster explained about the coaching these players get, even at such a young age:
“The facilities are incredible. For example, in our analysis department, they constantly send us clips of our performances to ensure we reflect on every move. The coaches are the same. Everyone is dedicated to helping you achieve your best,” Olagunju explained.
“That’s why the Academy is so successful; the community around the building. We have seen the success of players who have made the jump to the senior team. It feels within reach for us. I just need to stay driven and believe in myself.”
With an attitude like this and this level of coaching, we’re sure Saheed is going right to the top.
