Thiago Silva's son included in Chelsea's list of 2025-26 scholars as youngster looks to emulate legendary Brazilian defender

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Chelsea have unveiled their latest group of first-year scholars for the 2025-26 campaign and among the standout names are Reggie Walsh and Isago Silva, the son of veteran defender Thiago Silva. In total, 16 academy players have committed to the next stage of their football development at the west London outfit, reaffirming the club’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young talent.

WHAT HAPPENED?

For aspiring footballers at Chelsea's famed Cobham training ground, the pathway to top-tier football is well defined. Legendary centre-back John Terry set the standard years ago and the baton has since been passed to the likes of Reece James, now club captain, who represents the very best of what the academy can produce.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE

Among the newly signed scholars, Isago Silva’s name draws particular interest. The 16-year-old defender joined Chelsea’s academy at the Under-13 level shortly after his father, Thiago Silva, arrived at Stamford Bridge from Paris Saint-Germain. Isago, who can operate as either a centre-back or a left-back, has steadily risen through the ranks. Earlier this year, he made his Under-18 debut in a 3-1 victory over Leicester City. His younger brother, Iago, is also currently part of the Chelsea academy setup, signalling that football talent runs deep in the Silva household.

DID YOU KNOW?

In recent seasons, several names such as Trevoh Chalobah, Levi Colwill, Tyrique George and Josh Acheampong have also followed the same path, moving through the ranks and into the first-team fold. Their presence in Enzo Maresca's senior squad serves as daily inspiration to the current scholars working their way up the system.

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WHAT NEXT?

The continued focus on academy development under co-owner Todd Boehly has been a reassuring sign for those within Chelsea’s youth system. Maresca has already started integrating youth players into first-team training sessions and matchday squads. His approach, combined with the backing from the ownership, has created a fertile environment for young stars to thrive.