A group of Chelsea academy players have been integrated into the first team throughout Xabi Alonso’s first two weeks in charge, featuring in behind-closed-doors friendly wins against Crawley Town and Bromley. The youngsters could return to London during the Asian leg of the tour, however, if players involved at the World Cup rejoin the squad.
Among those catching the eye is Landon Emenalo, who is said to have played more minutes than any other player in the first two matches. Operating at left-back despite previously playing primarily in midfield, he has effectively filled the void left by Marc Cucurella following his move to Real Madrid. Emenalo has carried out extensive video analysis of Alonso’s methods in a bid to impress and took part in a post-season training camp organised by his agency. Speaking at the camp, he said: “I hope I can make my mark on the first team and leave a good impression. I think I need to be playing in a professional environment because I think I have played enough youth football for a lifetime.”
Sixteen-year-old Nicoll-Jazuli is the second-youngest player on the tour, though his physical presence belies his age. The youngster became the youngest-ever starter and goalscorer in the Uefa Youth League last season and has consistently played above his age group. He is developing into a high-energy, technically gifted midfielder in the mould of Cobham graduate Mason Mount, and Alonso has been openly impressed. “He is one of those talented players that comes from the academy,” the manager said. “Mahdi is one of the talents that we need to develop as he has special qualities that you don’t often see for a 16-year-old. He is a dynamic player, can pass short and dribble in the middle. He has made a good impression so far.”
Nicoll-Jazuli’s involvement on the tour represents something of a homecoming, with his mother being Australian. He is eligible to represent Australia, France and England, and currently plays for England at youth level. Also in the squad are defenders Diakite and Subuloye. London-born Diakite, who is eligible to represent Ivory Coast internationally and grew up idolising Yaya Toure, is often compared to Marc Guehi and is considered particularly strong in one-on-one situations and when playing out from the back. Subuloye, 18, is described as taller and more powerful than his defensive colleague.
Rounding out the notable academy contingent is a midfielder who is the son of former Premier League player Ben Watson and is said to share many of his father’s physical and footballing attributes. The collective performances of these youngsters will be closely watched as the tour progresses and Alonso continues to shape his squad.
Image credit: BBC Sport / BBC Sport
