Over the years, Chelsea Football Club has been home to many rising stars, but only one holds the title of the youngest player to ever wear the blue jersey.
That honor goes to Ian “Chico” Hamilton. Back in 1966, he made his senior debut for the club at just 16 years and 138 days old — and he didn’t just show up, he scored! That goal against Tottenham Hotspur made him both Chelsea’s youngest player and youngest goalscorer, a record that still stands to this day.
Fast forward to 2025, another teenager, Reggie Walsh, made headlines when he featured in a UEFA Conference League semi-final match against Djurgårdens IF. At 16 years old, he became the third-youngest player in Chelsea’s history, reminding fans that the club continues to invest in youth development.
Also worth mentioning is Jody Morris, who made his Premier League debut in 1996 at 17 years and 43 days old. At the time, he was the youngest Chelsea player to feature in a Premier League match.
Chelsea’s tradition of giving young talents a chance to shine is part of what makes the club’s history so exciting. And as the years go by, new records may be broken—but for now, Ian Hamilton’s legendary debut still leads the way.