Josh Acheampong should take huge confidence from the fact that Enzo Maresca just gave him back-to-back starts for Chelsea in the Premier League.
On Saturday afternoon, Chelsea picked up three points in the league with a strong 3-0 away win against Nottingham Forest.
Even though the Blues went in goalless at half time after a sloppy performance, they responded emphatically in the second period. The travelling supporters enjoyed their trip to the City Ground, which is where they also secured top four on the final day of the 2024-25 season.
Josh Acheampong, 19, broke the deadlock this weekend with his first senior goal, powering in a header inside the box.
The teenage centre-back, who’s a product of the Chelsea academy, started in the Liverpool victory before the international break. He’s just followed it up with another stellar performance against Forest, too.
Jason Cundy hailed Acheampong after his weekend performance, admitting he likes what he sees every single time he’s on the football pitch.
Josh Acheampong celebrates with Chelsea teammates after scoring against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Enzo Maresca reacts to Josh Acheampong display vs Nottingham Forest
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca was seriously impressed with Acheampong after his performance in defence against Forest. If the youngster keeps working hard off the pitch, it sounds like he’s got a fantastic chance of staying in the starting line-up.
When discussing Acheampong in his post-match interview, Maresca told BBC Match of the Day: “He’s a big name. He scored, but also he played very good. With personality. Since last season we have trusted Josh. He just has to work hard and then the future will be on his side.”
A dream come true for Josh Acheampong, scoring his first senior goal for @ChelseaFC 💙
He’s been at the club since the age of eight, and it’s his first goal since the U18PL Final in 2023/24! pic.twitter.com/Z4Gcc6Qlvs
— Premier League (@premierleague) October 18, 2025
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Reece James expects Acheampong to kick on after taking everything in his stride so far in the first team.
The towering centre-half impressed last season in senior football, playing an important role in the Conference League run en route to winning the European trophy. However, it feels like he’s maturing and ready for even more minutes this campaign.
Enzo Maresca celebrates with Josh Acheampong in the tunnel after Chelsea beat Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.
Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Chelsea’s centre-back spots look up for grabs
For Acheampong, he should have his ambition set on firmly establishing himself in the XI.
With Levi Colwill missing through a long-term injury, the Blues are crying out for a settled partnership to emerge in the heart of defence.
Unfortunately, Benoit Badiashile is out until December with his muscle injury. That leaves Acheampong competing with Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo and Wesley Fofana for the starting positions at centre-half.
All eyes are on Maresca to see if he’s preapred to give Acheampong a consistent run in the backline.