Chelsea’s latest academy gem has taken another major step in his promising career, making his first-team debut during the club’s pre-season victory over Western Sydney Wanderers in his hometown of Sydney.
Sixteen-year-old Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli, a Sudanese-Australian midfielder, came on for the Blues as he continues his rapid rise through Chelsea’s ranks.
Already regarded as one of the club’s brightest academy prospects, Nicoll-Jazuli has broken Chelsea records as the youngest-ever starter and goalscorer in the UEFA Youth League. His performances have earned praise from both head coach Xabi Alonso and teammate Cole Palmer.
A technically gifted and versatile midfielder, Nicoll-Jazuli primarily plays as a central midfielder but is equally comfortable operating in defensive, central, or attacking midfield roles. He currently plays for Chelsea’s Under-18 side and has also featured in the club’s UEFA Youth League squad.
Born on 6 January 2010 in Sydney, Australia, to an Australian mother and a Sudanese-Chadian father from the Chad-Sudan border region, Nicoll-Jazuli began his football journey at Afewee Training Centre at Brixton Recreation Centre in south London. He was quickly identified by Chelsea, Arsenal, and Crystal Palace before choosing to join Chelsea at the age of six. His younger brother is also part of the club’s academy.
Initially playing further forward, he transitioned into midfield at Under-13 level and has since demonstrated his ability to excel as a number six, number eight, or number 10.
Nicoll-Jazuli currently represents England at youth level but remains eligible to play senior international football for England, Australia, Sudan, and France.
Should he establish himself in Chelsea’s first team, he could become one of the first footballers of Sudanese heritage to represent the club at senior level.
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