The future of Chelsea is bright off the back of a plethora of deals completed by the new owners with an eye to the future.
A lot is made of the more than £1billion spent since Todd Boehly took over at Stamford Bridge, however a large portion of that money is on players who have not yet had the opportunity to prove their worth.
The highlight additions up to now are Estevao Willian and Kendry Paez, two players who are currently expected to remain part of the first team squad next season under Enzo Maresca.
The likes of Geovany Quenda, Dario Essugo, and Andrey Santos are all amongst those with a high ceiling who are currently playing for other clubs, however it can’t be understated just how impressive some of the youngsters currently at the club are too.
A number of those have made their debuts for the club in the Conference League this season, with the likes of Shumaira Mheuka and Kiano Dyer being given their opportunity.
Ishe Samuels-Smith signs long-term Chelsea contract
One individual who is yet to get that chance is Ishe Samuels-Smith, signed in the summer of 2023 from Everton.
Samuels-Smith has been in first team training on occasion, however is yet to make his debut for the club.
After an impressive spell with the academy sides at Cobham, it appears the Blues are thinking long-term with their plan for the 18-year-old moving forwards.
As announced by Chelsea’s official website, Samuels-Smith has signed a new contract with the club that will extend his time in West London until 2031.
The fact his deal will last a similar amount of time to the likes of Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson shows there is excitement at the club at what he can do in the coming years.
Clear pathway to first team for Samuels-Smith
Samuels-Smith has played the majority of his minutes for the young sides at left-back, however has also shown an ability to invert into a central role.
The starting left-back role is locked down by Marc Cucurella, with him establishing himself as one of the most important players in the starting side.
However, after Renato Veiga’s January departure on loan, there is no clarity over where he will be playing his football next season.
The opportunity is there for Samuels-Smith to establish himself as cover for the Spaniard, whilst having the chance to appear as a deputy when the situation suits.
