Tyrique George and Josh Acheampong share their experiences about their incredible journey from the Chelsea academy to competing in the Conference League final against Real Betis.

F off to all of them’ – Maresca hits back at critics after securing UCL berth.

In a remarkable journey from the Chelsea academy to the UEFA Conference League final, Tyrique George and Josh Acheampong have opened up about their “surreal” rise.

Chelsea are set to face Real Betis in the Conference League final on Wednesday at Poland’s Stadion Miejski, with the match being broadcast live on TNT Sports and discovery+.

Since the competition’s inaugural league stage began in September, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has utilised the Conference League as a platform to introduce young talent from The Blues’ esteemed academy. Among those making a significant impact are defender Acheampong and winger George.

Speaking to TNT Sports ahead of the final, George expressed his excitement, stating, “It would be surreal to win a trophy. Coming from so young as an eight-year-old and working all the way up, it would be amazing.”

George also highlighted the camaraderie within the academy, saying, “We’re just all really close. We like to play with the first team and train with them as well. It’s really nice.”

In a nod to the competition, Pellegrini remarked that while Chelsea may have a larger budget, he does not consider them the favourites.

George continued, “All the first team are really nice. They’re all really young as well. They all give me advice and tell me to work hard every day. My general life hasn’t changed. But playing with the first team – that’s changed quite a bit. I’m taking it day by day and enjoying it.”

This season, George has made a notable impact, contributing two goals and five assists in 24 appearances across all competitions. His goal against Fulham made him Chelsea’s youngest goalscorer in the Premier League since Callum Hudson-Odoi in 2020.

Acheampong, another product of the academy, shared his thoughts, saying, “Me and Tyrique have been together all our academy journey, so doing it with him and the other academy boys has been really good. Reece James being the captain and seeing that we play in the same position has been a good role model for me.”

At just 19, Acheampong is already looking to inspire younger players breaking into the first team. He referenced 16-year-old Reggie Walsh, who became the club’s youngest European starter in the semi-final against Djurgarden.

Reflecting on Walsh, Acheampong said, “I remember someone asked me a question the other day on if I’d seen Reggie play, and I was like, ‘He’s a bit younger than me!’ It’s mad to think that, but I try to help him if I can.”