'There's no reason why I cannot succeed' - Chelsea U18 coach of Nigerian descent emphasises

English football tactician of Nigerian descent, Hassan Sulaiman was confirmed as the new coach of Chelsea U18s on March 10, 2023, taking over the managerial reins from Ed Brand who left for Swindon Town to become their assistant manager. 

The Anglo-Nigerian held several roles at Chelsea and was the head coach of the U16s before he was promoted to the U18s on a permanent basis. 

Chelsea U18s finished the season strongly with Sulaiman in the dugout, winning four and drawing two matches, while suffering two defeats.  

With  few black managers in English football at the moment, both at senior and youth levels, Suleiman understands the significance of being a role model and emphasized that he will be judged based on his abilities as a coach. 

"We have seen Darren Moore get promoted at Sheffield Wednesday, and Andy Myers succeed as the development squad head coach here at Chelsea," Sulaiman said to Chelsea's official website. 

"There is no reason why I cannot succeed and achieve great things in this role.

"The focus is on the players and putting them in the best position to succeed at the club. It is an honour to be in this role and I will do everything in my power to see our players realise their potential."

Sulaiman coached several teenagers of Nigerian descent in the recently concluded season including Tudor Mendel-Idowu, Somto Boniface, Chinonso Chibueze, Tyrique George and Louis Flower.

Sulaiman is not the first Anglo-Nigerian coach to have worked at Chelsea in recent years. 

Eddie Newton was assistant manager to Roberto Di Matteo, Guus Hiddink and Frank Lampard before he departed Stamford Bridge in February 2020.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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