(09/08/2016) Mukthar Ali signs new contract with Chelsea

Mukhtar Ali has signed a long-term contract with Chelsea. The 18 year old midfielder made the announcement via his twitter page.

“Very happy to sign a new contract at @chelseafc Thank you to everyone for the support especially my family.”

The 2016 International Somali Sportsman of the Year has been a regular fixture in Chelsea’s development squad and has also played for England’s national team at the youth level.

Mukhtar joined Chelsea’s academy from Leyton Orient as an Under-11 and made his under-18 debut against Everton in April 2013.

Since then he has developed tremendously as a central midfielder who can also play defense. He broke into being a regular starter in Chelsea’s U-21 side and was a key part in Chelsea’s 2015-2016 UEFA Youth League and 2015-2016 FA Youth Cup championship teams.

With 42 appearances in all competitions last season, Mukthar Ali became the second leading appearance maker in the academy’s storied history.