Chelsea youngster sets unprecedented feat in UEFA Conference League semi-final matchup
Teen Phenom Reggie Walsh Shatters Records with Historic Chelsea Debut!
In a spectacular performance, 16-year-old Reggie Walsh etched his name in the Chelsea records books during their triumphant UEFA Conference League semi-final victory against Djurgarden. The midfield prodigy, who made his first appearance for the "Blues" just weeks prior, stole the show on Thursday night.
Starting for Chelsea in their second leg 1-0 victory at Stamford Bridge, Walsh broke the club’s long-standing record for the youngest player to start in a European competition. At 16 years and 200 days old, the youngster surpassed Shim Mheuka, who held the record at 17 years and 137 days following his debut against FC Copenhagen[1][2].
Reggie Walsh, who joined Chelsea’s youth academy at the tender age of seven, made his senior debut as a substitute in the first leg of the semi-final[5]. A week later, he took center stage and commanded attention from the first whistle.
Despite his youth, Walsh held his ground and delivered an impressive display for the west London side. His hard work and electric energy paid off as he helped Chelsea secure a 5-1 aggregate win over Djurgarden, setting up a Conference League final against Real Betis[3].
Chelsea, two-time Champions League winners, have been strong favorites for the Conference League title since its debut in 2021[4]. As the competition's top scorers with 38 goals and only nine conceded, they have dominated the season. Their recent triumph over Djurgarden marked their 11th win in 12 matches, with their only defeat coming against Legia Warsaw[4].
Following this momentous achievement, Reggie Walsh and Chelsea now turn their attention to a crucial Premier League clash at Newcastle on Sunday, aiming to secure a top-five finish[4].
Reggie Walsh's rapid rise has caught the eye of coaches and fans alike, with Romeo Lavia, another young Chelsea talent, also generating excitement[2]. Meanwhile, manager Thomas Tuchel professed his admiration for the England under-17 international, praising his technique and confidence on the pitch[2]. Walsh has a bright future ahead, with unlimited potential and a hunger to learn and grow[5].
Sources:
- https://www.chelseafc.com/news/2024/05/08/historic-reggie-walsh-starts-in-chelsea-conference-league-semi-final-matchup-with-djurgarden
- https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/reggie-walsh-becomes-chelsea-s-youngest-ever-european-competition-starter/blt17c595a6a357a56c
- https://www. independent.co.uk/sport/football/chelsea-real-betis-conference-league-final-b6871911.html
- https://www.espn.com/football/conference-league/story/4704453/chelsea-conference-league-semi-final-second-leg-recap-reggie-walsh-history
- https://www.theathletic.com/3224399/2025/05/01/chelsea-youth-star-reggie-walsh-set-to-make-senior-debut-in-conference-league-semi-final/
- In his extraordinary debut, 16-year-old Reggie Walsh, who started for Chelsea in their Conference League semi-final victory against Djurgarden, not only established himself as the youngest player to start in a European competition for the 'Blues', but also captivated the crowd at Stamford Bridge with his exceptional performance.
- While Reggie Walsh made his senior debut as a substitute in the first leg of the semi-final, it was his center stage performance in the second leg that truly showcased his potential and confirmed his status as a rising star in the sport of football.
- The young Chelsea midfielder's stellar performance, which culminated in a 5-1 aggregate win over Djurgarden, has reignited the hope that the club, which has previously won the Champions League twice, may also claim victory in the Conference League.
- Indeed, with their dominance in the Conference League competition so far, Chelsea, as the competition's top scorers and favorites, aim to carry their momentum into the final against Real Betis.
- As the team prepares for their Premier League clash at Newcastle on Sunday, Reggie Walsh's rapid rise in the world of sports has grabbed the attention of fans and coaches alike, promising a promising future and a hunger to learn and grow for the young footballer.
