Shumaira Mheuka looks poised to make his mark at Chelsea after becoming the youngest player to start for the club in European competition.
The 17-year-old winger started in the Blues’ 2–1 Europa Conference League semifinal win against Djurgarden, a match that has sparked fresh praise for the teenage talent.
Former Chelsea and England midfielder Steve Sidwell, who coached Mheuka at Brighton, shared his excitement while commentating for TNT Sports.
“I coached Shimmy when he was at Brighton. I was doing the Under-16s and he was a 14-year-old then and demanding about how he should be playing, starting, for the Under-16s which goes to show the confidence the young man has in joining in.
“He’s got good footballing IQ, he’s a good size and he’s destined for big things. He’s at a great club to hopefully hone those skills and get more appearances. Hopefully a goal to come with it.”
Mheuka made his first-team debut on 12 December 2024 against Astana and his Premier League bow on 25 February 2025 versus Southampton. He’s represented England at youth level but is still eligible for Zimbabwe.
