Chelsea have named a 26 player squad for a six day pre-season camp in the Netherlands, and among those selected is Super-Falcons-eligible midfielder Ashanti Akpan. The 19 year old, an England youth international of Nigerian descent, could feature in their friendly against Ajax at Sportcomplex de Toekomst on Sunday.
Chelsea exercised a one-year extension option on her contract in June, following a loan at Birmingham City, where she made 15 appearances last season. Having been with the club since age seven, she made her senior debut in an FA Cup quarter-final win over Reading in March 2023, and first appeared in a senior match-day squad as a 16 year old at a Champions League tie against Real Madrid. Akpan has already claimed youth silverware, including the FA Youth Cup (2021–22) and FA WSL Academy Cup (2022–23).
Editorial
We feel Ashanti Akpan’s inclusion in Chelsea’s travelling party is testament to both her talent and the trust the club places in her. Rising through the ranks since childhood, she exemplifies dedication and promise. Her choice by the national setup through heritage adds a compelling layer to her career narrative.
We are confident that exposure to high-level preparation will accelerate her development. Such opportunities matter they build character, sharpen skills, and signal readiness for more prominent roles. We trust that this camp will serve as a springboard for Akpan, both at club level and possibly on the international stage.
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Did You Know?
- Despite her Nigerian eligibility, Akpan is also eligible to represent Poland through her mother a rare dual-heritage link in women’s football.
- Her senior debut came in an FA Cup quarter-final victory against Reading on 19 March 2023, when she was still just 17.
- At only 16, she was named on the bench in a Champions League match at Chelsea a sign of the club’s early belief in her potential.
- Akpan has lifted the FA Youth Cup and the FA WSL Academy Cup two significant youth honours before turning 20.
- Chelsea activated a one-year extension on her contract this June, affirming their long-term plans for her development.
