Chelsea’s young defender Jorrel Hato says he is beginning to find his rhythm in the Premier League, admitting the transition from Dutch football has been demanding but rewarding.
The 19-year-old completed his first full 90 minutes for Chelsea in Wednesday’s 5–1 Champions League win over Ajax, the club he left just a few months ago. It marked a symbolic moment in his early Blues career — and another sign that he is beginning to feel at home in west London.
“It wasn’t easy… but I’m adapting fast”
Since arriving from Ajax in the summer, Hato has been eased into action by Enzo Maresca, who previously said the teenager needed time to adjust to the physical demands and tempo of English football.
Hato himself admits the early stages were tough, but he now feels stronger and more confident with every game.
“It wasn’t easy to move from the Dutch league to the Premier League,” Hato said. “It is a big step, there’s such a big difference, but I knew that. It wasn’t a shock; I was expecting that. I was maybe struggling a bit at the beginning, with the physical side and the tempo of the game. But now I think every day I am feeling better and better, and when the coach needs me, I am ready. He’s a great coach.”
The young defender’s maturity and composure on the ball have quickly made him a popular figure among supporters, while his left-footed balance has brought fresh options to Chelsea’s back line.
Making history with a young Chelsea side
Hato was one of three teenagers named in Chelsea’s starting XI against Ajax — the first time the Blues have done so in a Champions League fixture since 2010.
The team’s average age at kick-off was just 22 years and 163 days, a clear reflection of the club’s focus on youth development under Maresca.
But Hato warned that age shouldn’t fool opponents into thinking Chelsea lack experience or quality.
“We’re a young group. I’m 19 and I’m not even the youngest, so that says a lot,” he said. “We have a lot of young players with quality and hunger, ready for games like the one we had on Wednesday.”
The Dutchman, who made over 100 senior appearances for Ajax before his move, says he’s learning from more experienced teammates as he continues his development.
“Reece (James) has been here for a long time and has a lot of experience,” Hato continued. “Players like Tosin (Adarabioyo) and Cucu (Marc Cucurella) are older and experienced as well. So it’s not really different from when I was at Ajax — we’re young, but we have a lot of quality and leadership too.”
A calm and confident adaptation
For Maresca, Hato’s growing comfort is exactly what Chelsea hoped for when they signed him. The teenager’s ability to play both as a centre-back and left-back gives the team tactical flexibility — and his performances have shown composure beyond his years.
With Chelsea now shifting focus back to the Premier League ahead of a trip to Sunderland, Hato’s steady integration looks to be paying off.
| Jorrel Hato 2025/26 (Chelsea) | All Competitions |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 7 |
| Starts | 5 |
| Full 90s Completed | 2 |
| Clean Sheets | 3 |
source: Chelsea FC & UEFA Champions League data – 23 October 2025
Our View
In our view, Jorrel Hato is quietly becoming one of Chelsea’s most exciting long-term prospects. His blend of technical assurance, calmness under pressure, and positional intelligence already mirrors the kind of player Maresca wants to build around.
The teenager’s willingness to learn from experienced teammates like Reece James and Marc Cucurella will only accelerate his growth. Chelsea’s investment looks more justified with each passing game.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William writes:
Jorrel Hato has the makings of a Premier League success story. His transition from the Eredivisie was never going to be instant, but the signs are clear — he’s adapting fast. Maresca’s careful management is key, and Hato’s confidence seems to grow every time he plays.
At just 19, he’s showing leadership qualities beyond his years. Chelsea may have found their next defensive cornerstone.
Key Insights
- Hato says he’s “feeling better and better” adapting to Premier League football.
- Completed his first full 90 minutes in Chelsea’s 5–1 win over Ajax.
- One of three teenagers to start a Champions League game for Chelsea — first time since 2010.
- Credits Reece James, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Marc Cucurella for helping his development.
- Maresca easing him into action after his summer move from Ajax.
What’s Next
Chelsea play at home against Sunderland tomorrow, with Maresca likely to rotate his squad after their midweek European win. Hato is expected to keep his place as the Blues look to continue their solid defensive form.
👉 Has Jorrel Hato already shown signs of being Chelsea’s next great defender?
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