After taking on Charlton Athletic in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy on Tuesday evening, the young Blues' attention quickly shifts back onto league matters.

Our last outing in PL2 was a positive one, with a brace from captain Harvey Vale and a goal from Deivid Washington securing an impressive 3-1 victory over Leicester City at Kingsmeadow.

Arsenal, who have won five of their seven PL2 matches this term, will provide a stern test for Coelho's side. And after falling to defeat against Charlton – 12th in League One – in midweek, there is a feeling of something to prove of for our Under-21s squad.

'It wasn't the result we wanted but we can be proud of some aspects of our performance,' our Portuguese coach said. 'Having a busy schedule - two games in five days - can be tough but does prepare the boys for what their future schedules look like.

'There were moments against Charlton where we felt comfortable but other areas where we could have been stronger. We've taken the lessons learned and will apply them in our next fixture against Arsenal. The positive side of a busy schedule is it allows momentum to build and enables us to bounce back and set things right.'

Every player, coach and supporter knows the excitement created by a big London derby – and it's no different for our upcoming Premier League 2 fixture.

Coelho said: 'London derbies bring a unique buzz and this match is no exception. Playing Arsenal is a significant occasion and brings a natural energy and motivation that may not be present in other matches.

'Facing a top team like Arsenal, with quality players on both sides, will be tough. But these are the challenging matches where we grow the most. We see this as an opportunity to demonstrate what we can do at a different level.'

This season, our Under-21s have experienced the atmosphere of senior matches at Hayes Lane against Bromley and more recently at the Valley against Charlton. However, the size of the stadium is not what contributes to a senior atmosphere, it's the passionate supporters who attend these games.

'The pitch at Kingsmeadow is in excellent condition and the grounds are perfect for us,' said Coelho. 'But having the supporters there offers a special experience and we will need that more than ever when coming up against such a strong side.

'We feel the fans' energy – it makes it feel like we have an additional player on the field, which is crucial as we strive to showcase our capabilities.'

With this fixture a significant one for the Blues, and with a strong crowd expected at Kingsmeadow, it is a chance for our young players to demonstrate their abilities under pressure, which Coelho believes is vital for their development.

He said: 'These big games and moments are crucial in their careers. They build character and test how they handle pressure. It's important for the players to manage their emotions and channel that intensity positively.

'Playing in large stadiums or in front of a packed Kingsmeadow is an emotional experience. That connection prepares us for even bigger stages. We know that performing in front of a large crowd can change everything, and it's essential for the boys to become familiar with this experience.'

However, there is one particular aspect that the 39-year-old considers vital for his squad to showcase during the clash against the Gunners.

'Unity is key for us,' said Coelho. 'Without it, success is very difficult. After our performance against Charlton, we recognised moments where we lacked that connection defensively and offensively. I hope the team understands this message as we step up to a higher level against Arsenal.

'Everyone must feel connected to the game, whether they are starting, on the bench, or out of the squad. It’s about every player showing up to support one another in achieving the best possible performance. That unity is essential. Football is a team sport and I want to see those characteristics in my players.'

With tickets still available for Friday evening's fixture, supporters still have time to secure their seat and rally behind our Blues.

'To our fans, if you come to Kingsmeadow, you won’t regret it,' expressed Coelho. 'You’ll witness a team that is connected, that works hard off the ball and showcases individual quality that contributes to our overall performance. We're playing with an attractive style and our fans will feel that energy.

'I want to see our supporters enjoying the match and in good spirits as our boys play at a high level. When they are there in full support, it's not just about the eleven on the field, it’s about the entire team and the fans together. Their presence transforms the match experience. It’s incredibly important for us.'

Watch our London derby

Tickets are still available for our London derby against Arsenal at Kingsmeadow this Friday evening, with adult prices at £7 and junior and senior tickets priced at £5. Every supporter purchasing tickets for this match will be entered into a prize draw to win tickets for the men’s Premier League match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge ten days later.

If you can't make it to our home turf, the Premier League 2 fixture will be available free of charge on the official Chelsea app, website, and YouTube channel via the Chelsea U21 vs. Arsenal U21 Match Centre.