Chelsea’s Rising Star Reggie Walsh Signs First Professional Contract

Chelsea Football Club has secured the future of one of its brightest young talents, as 17-year-old midfielder Reggie Walsh signed his first professional contract on Friday. The announcement follows an extraordinary week for the academy graduate, who made history as the club’s youngest-ever Champions League debutant during a 5-1 victory over Ajax earlier this week.

Walsh, who joined Chelsea’s academy at the age of seven, has progressed rapidly through the ranks, earning his senior debut last season in the UEFA Conference League. His Champions League appearance, at just 17 years and two days old, surpassed previous club records and marked him as the second-youngest Englishman to play in the competition, behind only Jack Wilshere. Head coach Enzo Maresca has been vocal about Walsh’s potential, praising his intuitive understanding of the game and alignment with the team’s tactical philosophy.

The signing reflects Chelsea’s ongoing commitment to nurturing homegrown talent under Maresca’s leadership. Walsh, a regular starter for the Under-21 side, is seen as a cornerstone of the club’s youth development strategy. With his professional debut now secured, all eyes will be on the teenager as he aims to cement his place in the first team.