Josh Acheampong: Chelsea’s Emerging Right-Back
Introduction
Josh Acheampong has emerged as one of Chelsea’s promising young defenders, attracting attention for rapid progression from youth ranks to first-team football. His development is pertinent to supporters and talent-watchers alike as Premier League clubs increasingly rely on academy graduates. At just 19, Acheampong’s senior appearances and international recognition mark him out as a player to follow.
Main body
Club breakthrough
Born on 5 May 2006 in London, Josh Acheampong is listed as a defender and primarily operates as a right-back. Standing around 185 cm, he was first named in a Chelsea matchday squad on 11 March 2024 for the Premier League game against Newcastle United, though he remained an unused substitute on that occasion. His professional debut came shortly before his 18th birthday on 2 May 2024, when he replaced a team-mate in the 85th minute of a 2–0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge in a high-profile London derby.
Acheampong continued to earn trust from the coaching staff, making his first Premier League start on 4 January 2025 in a 1–1 draw with Crystal Palace. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca publicly praised him after that match, describing him as the best player on the pitch — an endorsement that underlines the club’s confidence in his abilities at senior level. Transfermarkt records list him as a Chelsea player since 2024, with a market value reported at around €20.00m.
International recognition and profile
On the international stage, Acheampong has also begun to make strides. He made his debut for the England Under-21s on 8 September 2025, appearing in a 2–0 away win over Kazakhstan in UEFA U21 Championship qualification. That cap signals national team interest and provides a pathway for further involvement at youth and potentially senior levels.
Conclusion
Josh Acheampong’s early senior appearances, praise from his manager and an England U21 debut all point to a young defender with genuine potential. At 19 and already operating in the Premier League, his development will be significant for Chelsea’s defensive options and for England’s youth pipeline. Observers should watch for increased playing time, further international call-ups and how he adapts as opponents target his position at the highest level.
