Rachael Adedini signs first professional contract with Chelsea

A dynamic and versatile forward, Adedini is a central striker, and can also play out wide. The 17-year-old has represented France Under-17s on 24 occasions and has played at Under-19 level twice.

On putting pen to paper on her first professional deal, Adedini said: ‘I’m very happy to be here. I’m excited, and I’m grateful to be here.

‘I’m thankful to God, and the reason behind this is because my brother’s a big fan, and we’ve always loved Chelsea, so playing here today is a massive pride for me and my family.’

The young forward was born in Le Havre in France. She has played at three consecutive Women’s Under-17 European Championships since the 2023/24 campaign and has stood out with nine goals in total.

That strike rate has seen her equal Germany’s Shekiera Martinez as the all-time top scorer at the Women’s Under-17 Euros.

France made the final in 2026, narrowly losing to Germany with a 1-0 defeat. Adedini finished the tournament with the Golden Boot award after scoring in a 5-0 win over Poland and netting a brace in a 4-1 victory over Finland in the group stages.

Everyone at Chelsea extends a warm welcome to Rachael, and we look forward to watching her progress.