Chelsea’s Solanke ‘will play many Champions League matches’
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho believes Dominic Solanke’s senior debut will prove to be the first of many Champions League appearances by the exciting forward.
Solanke, 17, came on as a second-half substitute in the Blues’ 6-0 hammering of Maribor at Stamford Bridge.
“Solanke is in the phase where we know the talent is there,” Mourinho said.
“It was his first game and something he will never forget. And for sure he is going to play in many, many Champions League matches. He will be a very good player.”
Two other Chelsea teenagers were given a chance to impress in Tuesday’s Group G clash.
The versatile Nathan Ake, 19, came on as a substitute for Cesc Fabregas in midfield and Kurt Zouma, who turns 20 next week, started alongside skipper John Terry at the back.
“It was good – and it’s always better for young players if they can play when the situation is good,” Mourinho said.
“Zouma is in a different scenario in that he is ready to play in any match, but because I want to give stability to the team we have played with Gary Cahill and John Terry.
“Nathan Ake is at a different level. He is at the level of being almost, almost there.”
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