Chelsea have officially extended the contract of midfielder Ashanti Akpan, whose eligibility for the Super Falcons has sparked excitement. The deal, signed on 22 December 2023, secures her services until summer 2025 with an option for a further year.
Akpan, 18, has been with Chelsea since 2013, joining the academy as a seven-year-old. She progressed through the youth ranks, lifting both the FA Youth Cup (2021–22) and FA WSL Academy Cup (2022–23), before making her senior debut in March 2023 in a 3–1 FA Cup quarter-final win over Reading.
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Born in Poland to a Polish mother and Nigerian father, Akpan is able to represent England, Poland or Nigeria. She has played for England at under-15, under-16, under-17 and under-18 levels, and was provisionally cap‑tied after appearing in an England U‑19 qualifier in October.
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Chelsea’s official announcement celebrated her rise: "Ashanti Akpan has signed her first professional contract with the club!".
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Editorial
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We’ve admired Ashanti Akpan’s steady ascent her journey from academy hopeful to first‑team contract holder reflects patience, talent and promise. At just 18, her professional deal cements a foundation that few achieve at this stage.
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We believe her eligibility for three nations adds depth to football narratives. Whether she opts for England, Poland or Nigeria, her decision will carry meaning beyond the pitch. It’s exciting to think of a Nigerian‑eligible talent with her pedigree stepping up for the Super Falcons in the future.
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We also feel this deal underscores Chelsea’s commitment to their development pathway. They’re not just signing contracts—they’re shaping futures. Akpan’s contract is a declaration of faith in homegrown talent, at a time when women’s football demands investment and long-term planning.
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We’re confident that her progression will inspire other young players, showing a viable route from grassroots to professional ranks. As she grows with Chelsea, we’ll be watching and hoping that her choice reflects her potential heritage and global identity.
Did You Know?
Ashanti Akpan joined Chelsea aged seven and progressed through all academy levels.
She won the FA [Youth Cup](https://mediawiki.weopensoft.com/index.php/Utilisateur:EzraGarrard53) in 2021–22 and the FA WSL [Academy](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/news/transfer-news/) Cup in 2022–23.
Akpan made her in March 2023, coming off the bench in a 3–1 FA Cup victory over Reading.
Her new contract lasts through summer 2025, with an option to extend another year.
She has been called up and provisionally cap‑tied by England, but remains eligible for Nigeria and Poland.