We profile Samuel Rak-Sakyi, one of two Academy players who have travelled with Enzo Maresca's senior squad to Greece for our UEFA Conference League away tie against Panathinaikos.

Having been at Chelsea since the age of eight, Rak-Sakyi graduated to our Under-18s in 2021/22 and quickly became a key part of Ed Brand's side that season.

The following campaign saw the youngster battle injury with periods on the sidelines. However, when he did play, he was assured as ever on the ball and on occasions captained the Under-18s, by then managed by current head coach Hassan Sulaiman.

After a slow start for the Under-21s, Samuel became a mainstay in centre-midfield and put in many outstanding performances, proving pivotal in the team's impressive run to the play-offs during 2023/24. Unfortunately, he picked up an injury that saw him miss the end of the campaign, but he returned this season, making his first start of 2024/25 earlier this week.

Here's what you need to know about the Academy midfielder.

How old is Samuel Rak-Sakyi?

Now one of the more senior members of our Under-21s squad, Rak-Sakyi is 19 years old and will turn 20 in March.

What position does Samuel Rak-Sakyi play?

Comfortable in possession even under pressure and with a wide range of passing, Rak-Sakyi is predominantly a central midfield player, but has also featured in a wide role on occasion for the Academy.

How long has Samuel Rak-Sakyi been at Chelsea?

The native Londoner has come all the way through the ranks of the Chelsea Academy, having been at the club since Under-8s level, and signed a new two-year contract in August.

What is Samuel Rak-Sakyi's record for our Academy teams this season?

Samuel has made three appearances for our Under-21s this season, his first start coming in Monday's 4-1 win away at Bournemouth in the Premier League Cup group stage. He scored his first goal of the campaign late on in the 4-0 Premier League International Cup win over Anderlecht last month.

What squad number does Samuel Rak-Sakyi wear?

Rak-Sakyi has been given the No51 shirt for this season.