Chelsea Football Club have reportedly secured a major coup in youth recruitment with the signing of Nigerian‑descended defender Mac‑Ford Akhabue into their esteemed academy at Cobham.
The young centre‑back, born in Canada to Nigerian parents from Esan, Edo State, has been developing his game with Oakville Blue Devils in Ontario and through stints at Ontario’s High Park FC and Bryst Academy—where he helped secure the New York Cup and featured in the U‑17 iModel Cup finals.
Akhabue has cited Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen as a central inspiration in his career trajectory, saying:
“His work rate, dedication, determination to excel and talent … any serious aspiring young lads should emulate.”
Following a highly successful period in Canadian youth football, Akhabue will now embark on a new chapter by joining Chelsea’s youth ranks. While the official club announcement is still impending, multiple Nigerian media outlets report that the defender has officially signed a scholarship deal with the Blues—an opportunity seen as a pathway toward a full professional contract in the future.
The move places Akhabue amongst an expanding group of young talents of Nigerian descent entering top-tier European academies—joining the likes of Derrick Abu (formerly of Chelsea Academy), Carney Chukwuemeka, Tosin Adarabioyo and Noni Madueke, who have all taken steps toward senior professional football .
This development marks a pivotal moment for Akhabue’s career. His technical skill, physical presence, and mentality have earned him this opportunity at one of English football’s leading youth systems.
He is now poised to benefit from Chelsea’s world-class coaching, competitive youth leagues, and modern training facilities.
Chelsea’s academy is known for nurturing talent into the professional game.
If Akhabue’s transition follows those of previous Nigerian-descended graduates, he could soon be training alongside, or even playing with, the club’s Under-21s or Premier League 2 sides.
Congratulations to Mac‑Ford Akhabue—a major nod to his hard work, dedication, and aspiration.
The football world will be watching as he dons the royal blue and embarks on this exciting new journey with Chelsea.
