England youth international of Nigerian descent named Chelsea Scholar of the Year

England youth international of Nigerian descent Tayo Subuloye has been named Chelsea's Scholar of the Year for the 2025–2026 season.

The commanding centre-back played a pivotal role as the Young Blues secured the U18 Premier League South title.

Subuloye scored two goals in 19 appearances in the U18 Premier League and also featured in the UEFA Youth League, Premier League 2, FA Youth Cup and EFL Trophy.

The highly-rated defender was appointed captain of Chelsea's U18 side this season and demonstrated leadership and composure at the heart of the defence, earning a contract extension in January that will keep him at the club until 2030.

The 18-year-old joined Chelsea's academy at U12 level from Brighton & Hove Albion and has since developed into a strong and composed defender.

Speaking at the awards ceremony on Tuesday, Subuloye said: "I'm really excited for all the academy players to get together and get recognised with some awards."

Reflecting on winning the Scholar of the Year award, he added: "It’s really important. I'm really proud for my family — I’ve made my family proud. It's recognition for what I've been doing on and off the pitch, so I’m really happy.”

Subuloye follows in the footsteps of another defender of Nigerian descent, Somto Boniface, who was named Chelsea's Scholar of the Year for the 2022–2023 campaign.