While he is frequently cited as one of Cole Palmer’s closest confidants in the dressing room, Josh Acheampong is increasingly viewed by Chelsea’s hierarchy as a world-class talent in his own right.
This season, Josh Acheampong has made significant strides, amassing 26 appearances across all competitions and proving his worth as a versatile defender. The 19-year-old’s campaign began with a bang, earning a Player of the Match award in a clean-sheet draw against Crystal Palace, and he later celebrated a maiden senior goal with a header against Nottingham Forest.
Despite a brief dip in minutes following the return of Mamadou Sarr in February, the England Under-21 international remains a vital part of Chelsea‘s long-term project.
Chelsea have reportedly rebuffed interest from the likes of Real Madrid and Liverpool.
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Chelsea rate Josh Acheampong very highly
Speaking on the Straight Outta Cobham podcast, Liam Twomey says he’s consistently told Chelsea see Acheampong as a world-class talent.
“And you see someone like Tosin playing in front of him, who I think from a personality standpoint is important to this squad.
“Beyond just being one of Cole Palmer’s best mates, I think he is one of the bigger personalities. I think he is a player who is well liked. But if you are taking the long view, as we are often told Chelsea are, and Chelsea want to do, Acheampong, we have been consistently told they see as a world class talent.
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“And you have to platform that talent. If not against Port Vale in the FA Cup, then when? There aren’t going to be any low risk opportunities between now and the end of the season.
You are going to have to put faith in him if you are going to play him at some point. And, yeah, the way things are, look, I don’t know, we haven’t been told anything either way. But the way things are, it wouldn’t be a shock if it got to the summer and you started hearing rumblings that maybe he wants out, or at the very least he wants to go on loan next season.”
Josh Acheampong showed glimpses for England
Josh Acheampong showed his potential for the England Under-21 setup during the recent March international break. The Chelsea starlet started both of Lee Carsley’s Euro 2027 qualifiers, playing the full 90 minutes in the 1-1 draw against Andorra and the 4-1 victory over Moldova at Carrow Road.
Operating at the heart of the defense, Acheampong’s aerial presence was a recurring theme. His composure on the ball and defensive maturity even show that Liam Rosenior has an extra centre-back option.
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