Nigerian-born sensation Chizaram “Chizzy” Ezenwata has etched his name into Chelsea’s youth history books after becoming the club’s all-time top scorer at U18 level with a stunning tally of 30 goals and 10 assists in the 2024/2025 season. Despite being only 16 and eligible for U16 football, Ezenwata has excelled across elite youth competitions including the U18 Premier League, FA Youth Cup, and Premier League Cup.
His rise began after a position switch from defence to attack during his time at Charlton Athletic, where he scored over 100 goals in two seasons before earning a move to Chelsea. His contributions this season include a brace against Brighton and a dramatic late goal against Arsenal.
Chelsea U18 coach Hassan Sulaiman lauded him as “a natural in front of goal,” praising his composure and maturity. Ezenwata currently represents England at U17 level but remains eligible for Nigeria and Cameroon. His father, former Gombe United player Ndubuisi Ezenwata, has publicly stated a desire to see his son don the green-and-white of Nigeria.
As the young forward signs a pre-scholarship contract with Chelsea for the 2025/2026 season, excitement is building both in England and Nigeria about what comes next for this prodigious talent.
Editorial
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In Chizzy Ezenwata, Nigeria may be witnessing the emergence of its next generational attacking talent. At just 16, he has broken a long-standing Chelsea youth record and shown that not only can he score goals, but he can do it under pressure, against the best of his age group, and with consistency.
But now comes the critical moment: the international tug of war. England may have first dibs, but Nigeria must not be caught napping. With a strong Nigerian identity and a father who is publicly backing his son’s connection to the homeland, the Nigerian Football Federation should act now build a relationship, invite him into the youth fold, and present a roadmap for a future with the Super Eagles.
Ezenwata represents more than potential he’s already delivering. The question is will Nigeria be the beneficiary of this exceptional young forward’s loyalty and talent, or will history repeat itself as another diaspora star slips through the cracks?
Did You Know?
- Chizzy Ezenwata began his youth career at Tottenham Hotspur as a central defender before transitioning to a striker.
- His 30-goal season is the highest ever recorded for a Chelsea U18 player in a single campaign.
- The Chelsea U18 team is managed by Hassan Sulaiman, one of the few Black British coaches at a top English academy.
- Ezenwata has dual eligibility for Nigeria, England, and Cameroon, making his future international allegiance highly contested.
- He scored over 100 goals and provided more than 50 assists in two seasons at Charlton Athletic before moving to Chelsea.
