Maresca Puts 16-Year-Old Kavuma-McQueen on Chelsea First-Team Radar, Hails Reggie Walsh

Overview

• Enzo Maresca said Ryan Kavuma-McQueen is “one of the players we are looking at” after the winger’s four goals for England Under-17s against Germany.
• Reports say Chelsea expect Kavuma-McQueen to sign his first professional deal when he turns 17 on January 1, 2026, reflecting a drive to retain talent after Rio Ngumoha’s 2024 exit.
• Maresca named 16-year-old midfielder Reggie Walsh as his favourite academy player, praising how he naturally executes the manager’s tactical demands.
• Shim Mheuka is also in Maresca’s plans after standout youth performances, with near-term minutes possible given injuries and a Carabao Cup tie at Lincoln on September 24, where Marc Guiu is cup‑tied.
• Kavuma-McQueen has featured for the Under-21s and trained with the seniors, supported by staff tracking academy progress as Maresca continues integrating youngsters.