Chelsea Under-18s defender Saheed Olagunju has expressed his determination to work his way from the Academy to the first team, fulfilling his lifelong dream of playing for the Blues, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 17-year-old, who joined Chelsea’s youth ranks at the Under-12 level after a stint at Charlton Athletic, has steadily climbed through the age groups and is now focused on making a significant impact under the guidance of Under-18s head coach Hassan Sulaiman.
Olagunju’s passion for football began early, from kicking a ball around his house as a child to training at Cobham, Chelsea’s renowned training ground.
His journey has already seen success, with highlights including winning the Under-18 Premier League Southern title and the Under-17 Premier League Cup during the 2023/24 season.
These achievements have only strengthened his resolve to continue his development with the club.
“It has always been my goal to play for Chelsea,” Olagunju shared on Chelsea’s official website. “Everything you need to grow and become the best version of yourself is here. You can’t say that about many places; it’s a special place.”
Despite these early triumphs, Olagunju knows that the road to breaking into the senior team is long and challenging.
He acknowledges the importance of dedication both on and off the pitch, emphasizing that extra sessions, analysis, gym work, and mindset are crucial to achieving success at the highest level.
Olagunju looks up to players like Levi Colwill, who also rose through Chelsea’s Academy ranks to make his first-team debut.
Reflecting on Colwill’s journey, Olagunju highlighted the importance of hard work, a lesson that has stuck with him as he strives to reach the same heights.
“This is just the start of my career, and I hope there will be many more years to come,” the teenage defender added.” “Whenever I need motivation, I think of what I see as the prize; playing in front of a large crowd and being able to play week in, and week out.
“To be a successful footballer, you must be dedicated. Only the best of the best break through to the men’s team, but you need to believe you can do it. That’s the mindset of an Academy player.
“Your work on the pitch is obviously important, but everything off the pitch is just as crucial. Extra sessions, analysis, gym work, and conversations are all essential aspects of being a footballer.
“Many players have successfully made the jump from the Academy to the men’s team, one I look at is Levi Colwill.
“When I look at his interviews, he always mentions the same thing: ‘Hard work gets you here’, and that has really stuck with me. I just need to stay driven and follow my dream.”
Born in Greenwich, London, to parents of Nigerian descent, Olagunju is eligible to feature for the two countries but he is yet to play for any.