“He deserves to be in the first team” – 18-year-old Chelsea youngster who starred for the academy last season now seen in first-team training

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Concerns Within Chelsea’s Academy Setup

Recent reports have highlighted growing concerns from within Chelsea’s academy system.

According to sources, there’s genuine unease about the unclear pathway to the first team, especially after the club’s influx of young players.

While there is excitement around the anticipated arrivals of Estevao Willian and Kendry Paez next summer, this shift has resulted in the departure of Rio Ngumoha, one of their standout prospects.

Donnell McNeilly Training with Chelsea’s First Team

Images posted on Chelsea’s official 5th Stand App have shown 18-year-old Donnell McNeilly training alongside the first team players.

The young forward shined for the U18s last season, contributing to 23 goals in just 19 matches by March.

Chelsea Monitoring McNeilly’s Progress

McNeilly’s stellar performances have not gone unnoticed. The club has reportedly kept him on their radar, viewing him as a key young talent for future first-team considerations.

Several young players have had the opportunity to train under manager Enzo Maresca, with McNeilly being one of them. Academy players are expected to have the chance to impress during the Conference League, especially with senior players like Ben Chilwell missing out on spots in the squad.

Kiano Dyer Joins the Conference League Squad

Among the academy stars, Kiano Dyer has also been named in Chelsea’s squad for the group stages of the Conference League. This decision comes as the club manages key players’ minutes in what is expected to be a hectic first half of the season.