'It's massive' – Chelsea defender Subuloye relishes UEFA Youth League challenge

Chelsea youth teamer Tayo Subuloye has spoken of the excitement within the squad as the UEFA Youth League returns, calling it one of the most important competitions in academy football.

Born in Eastbourne, the centre-back, who is eligible to represent England and Nigeria at international level, will be hoping to make his debut in the competition on Wednesday when the Blues take on Bayern Munich.

Subuloye has emphasised that the UEFA Youth League offers a rare opportunity for players to test themselves against Europe's best young sides.

"It's massive. Everyone knows the Youth League is one of the biggest competitions at this level, and it gives us the chance to test ourselves against the best young players across Europe," he told Chelsea's official website.

"It's something we’ve all been looking forward to. It'll be a really good experience for the squad."

While much focus will be on results, Subuloye believes the off-field aspects of the competition are equally valuable.

"On the pitch, you get to face different styles of football, which really challenges you and helps you develop.

"Off the pitch, travelling together, staying in hotels, preparing for big games - it's all part of growing up as a footballer and learning how to handle different situations."

Subuloye has been captaining Chelsea U18s, managed by Nigerian coach Hassan Sulaiman, since the start of the 2025-2026 season.

Chelsea remain the only English club to have lifted the UEFA Youth League, claiming the title in 2015 and 2016, before finishing as runners-up in 2018 and 2019.

Nigeria international Ola Aina holds the record for the most UEFA Youth League appearances by a Chelsea player, featuring 20 times in the competition.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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