As part of the agreement, the five-time Premier League champions will use the football facilities on campus throughout the year for their youth development programme, with Academy players also attending educational workshops hosted by the University. 

In return, Loughborough University will play a competitive match against the Club’s Academy side at its Cobham Training Ground. Its coaching staff will also be invited to attend a separate training session to learn from those at the top of the professional game.

The partnership with Chelsea follows similar strategic initiatives agreed with Liverpool and Derby County. Loughborough also works closely with the Premier League and the Football Association.

Richard Allen, Director of Football at Loughborough University, said:

“This agreement with Chelsea signifies another huge step towards what we’re trying to achieve here at Loughborough. The working relationship will strengthen our coaches’ knowledge base whilst also giving their Academy players access to some of the best education in the country.

“The friendly game will also provide an excellent experience for all involved and will certainly aid our squad’s development.”

John Steele, Executive Director of Sport at Loughborough University, added:

“The partnership with Chelsea is testament to how our football offering has grown in recent years through the hard work, commitment and dedication of our elite-level team. We’re looking forward to developing this special relationship and welcoming the Academy and its support team to campus soon.”

Neil Bath, head youth development at Chelsea’s Academy, said:

‘As part of our wider partnership with Loughborough University, we are delighted to be able to use their excellent facilities for friendlies and look forward to welcoming the University to Cobham in the future. We are also excited to share coaching ideas and help our players take advantage of their award-winning educational opportunities.’

This follows on from Loughborough University London and Chelsea's three-year strategic partnership that sees the two organisations work together on research, internships, player aftercare and engagement activities.

For more information on football at Loughborough, click here.