Chelsea midfielder Reggie Walsh has expressed his delight after completing a season-long loan move to League One side Wigan Athletic, with the highly-rated teenager eager to get started and continue his development in senior football.
The 17-year-old will spend the 2026/27 campaign away from Stamford Bridge as Chelsea look to provide him with regular first-team football and valuable experience in a competitive environment.
Walsh is understood to be very happy with the opportunity and is excited about the challenge ahead. Having already experienced senior football with Chelsea, the midfielder believes the move to Wigan represents an important next step in his development.
The teenager joined CHELSEA as an under-eight and has progressed through the club’s academy ranks, establishing himself as one of the most promising young players within the system.
His potential was recognised at an incredibly early age when Walsh became the third-youngest player to make a senior appearance for Chelsea. He made his debut at 16 years and 193 days during the Blues’ UEFA Conference League semi-final victory over Djurgarden in the 2024/25 season
Speaking to Latics TV after joining Latics on a season-long loan, Walsh expressed his delight and said:
“It’s a privilege to be here. It’s a massive club with a lot of history, so I can’t wait to get started. It’s the perfect stepping stone I need in my career. Being 17, I need to play men’s football, and I believe this is the perfect environment for me to be in and build my career to get to where I want to be.”
The midfielder will now have the chance to prove himself against experienced professionals, while also learning to cope with the physical demands and intensity of regular senior matches.
His performances at academy level suggest he is ready for the challenge. Walsh was an important member of Chelsea’s Under-21s side that finished top of the Premier League 2 table last season and also helped the Under-18s defeat Manchester City in the national final.
The loan therefore represents a significant opportunity for Walsh to turn his potential into senior experience.
CHELSEA will closely monitor his progress throughout the season, while Walsh will be determined to make the most of every opportunity at Wigan.
MORE BIG CHELSEA NEWS AND GOSSIP
Latest: Alonso told woridle will be great Chelsea signing – Blues to sign up 23-goal star – Chelsea contact, offered £200k-a-week star
Top Read: Chelsea agreement close for attacker – Alsono green lights £65M move – Chelsea in talks for powerhouse deal
Must Check Out: Alonso closes in £64M signing after deal done – Fans to give £100M star ‘warm welcome’ – Blues talks sign £80M Forward