There is a buzz around Chelsea when it comes to rising star Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli.
If you look at the Chelsea academy in the 21st century, there are so many incredible youngsters that have come through at Cobham. At the moment, the first-team squad includes academy graduates Reece James, Levi Colwill, Trevoh Chalobah, Josh Acheampong and Tyrique George.
Will Blues prospect Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli be the next breakout talent?
The 15-year-old midfielder, whose 16th birthday isn’t until January, has started to create some headlines for his impact in youth football. Earlier this week, Nicoll-Jazuli became Chelsea’s youngest ever goalscorer in the UEFA Youth League, netting in a 6-3 win against Ajax’s Under-19s side.
In addition, Nicoll-Jazuli even trained with Chelsea’s first team a few days ago, which is a remarkable achievement for the teenager.
Chelsea FC Training Session And Press Conference - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3
Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Chelsea have a special talent with Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli
According to The Sun, Chelsea youngster Nicoll-Jazuli has been tipped for a huge career at Stamford Bridge.
The report has been told Nicoll-Jazuli is widely regarded as the best player his age group, receiving comparisons to Real Madrid and England stars Jude Bellingham for his style of play.
Apparently, Blues head coach Enzo Maresca is a ‘huge admirer’ of the teenage talent. He could even be in line for a first-team debut before the end of the 2025-26 season if he continues to improve and impress.
In addition, sources at Chelsea insist that Nicoll-Jazuli is even more talented than Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman and has a higher ceiling.
English talent Downman, who’s also 15, is another English youngster with unbelievable potential. It is quite telling that the attacker has already played three first-team games for Arsenal, working regularly as part of the senior group at the Emirates Stadium.
Chelsea FC v AFC Ajax - UEFA Youth League
Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Enzo Maresca won’t overlook the academy
Even though Chelsea head coach Maresca has a talented squad of players, which cost a lot to assemble, he’s still shown his desire to promote from within. It must give everyone coming through the youth ranks a lift and some extra motivation.
Reggie Walsh, who’s just turned 17, made his Champions League debut in midweek against Ajax.
Hopefully, Nicoll-Jazuli is the next breakout star at Chelsea, and fans will keep a close eye on his development. Even so, it is crucial not to put too much pressure on these teenagers tipped for stardom.