Golden Boy 2025: Chelsea trio shortlisted for award - plus incoming teenager next summer

Three Chelsea players have been nominated for the 2025 Golden Boy award, as part of a 25-man list released by Italian outlet Tuttosport, which includes a 20-man shortlist and five wild card entries.

The Golden Boy award is an annual recognition for the most promising young football talents in Europe under the age of 21, with eligibility restricted to players born on or after January 1, 2005.

The Chelsea nominees are Estevao Willian, who has become a key player for the club since his summer arrival and has enhanced his standing with strong performances for both Chelsea and the Brazilian national team; Jorrel Hato, a former established starter at Ajax who has made five appearances for Chelsea this season, including three starts; and Mamadou Sarr, a centre-back currently on loan at Strasbourg after signing an eight-year contract with Chelsea in the summer.

In addition, Geovany Quenda, who is confirmed to join Chelsea from Sporting CP next summer, is also on the nomination list, having recorded one goal and four assists in 10 appearances across all competitions for Sporting this season.

Historically, no Chelsea player has won the Golden Boy Award since its inception in 2003, with Barcelona dominating in recent years by producing winners such as Pedri, Gavi, and Lamine Yamal. Previous Chelsea players who have been shortlisted include Mason Mount, Billy Gilmour, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Levi Colwill.