Chelsea’s Josh Acheampong Pleased with His Third Premier League Start of His Young Career

Josh Acheampong Shines in Third Premier League Start for Chelsea

Josh Acheampong is quickly establishing himself as a name to watch at Stamford Bridge. The 19-year-old defender recently made his third Premier League start, stepping into the centre of defence alongside Trevoh Chalobah in Chelsea’s opening fixture of the 2025/26 season against Crystal Palace.

With senior defenders sidelined due to injury, Acheampong was handed a crucial responsibility, and the youngster rose to the occasion with a composed display.

Facing the physical challenge of Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, he demonstrated a maturity beyond his years, combining calm positional awareness with decisive interventions to help Chelsea secure a clean sheet in a goalless draw. Reflecting on the experience, Acheampong acknowledged the intensity of the match.

“The manager didn’t really put too much pressure on me. He just told me to play my game and do the best I can. That Mateta is strong, so I had to be ready and prepared for it,” he told the club's official platform.

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He added: “I was definitely expecting a battle with Mateta. There were a lot of one-v-one situations, but it was okay.”

Although more accustomed to appearances at full-back since his promotion to the senior squad last year, Acheampong clearly felt at home in the centre. Chelsea fans have been impressed by the way he combined physicality with composure on the ball, stepping confidently into each challenge while helping organise the backline.

This outing marked Acheampong’s 15th senior appearance for the club and his sixth in the Premier League. The teenager acknowledged the difficulty of competing in England’s top tier but expressed determination to seize every opportunity.

“It’s hard playing in the Premier League, to be fair, but I go into it thinking it’s another match and try to do my best,” he said.

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Looking ahead, Acheampong is focused on growth and contributing consistently. “Coming back in for pre-season after the Club World Cup, I felt ready, so whenever I get my chance, I just need to be prepared.

“Hopefully, I can play as many games as possible and we can win as many matches as possible,” he added.

Chelsea supporters will be heartened by the youngster’s poise and readiness. With each performance, Acheampong is proving that he is keen to step into the senior side when called upon and capable of making a meaningful impact.