John Terry Joins Chelsea’s Academy Team

The Chelsea legend takes up a consultancy role at the club’s academy, mentoring the next generation of blues

John Terry, a product of Chelsea’s academy, made 717 senior appearances at the club, becoming the captain, and winning all that could be won whilst there. He understands the club better than anyone and will offer his expertise to the academy and their youngsters.

After leaving Aston Villa, where he worked alongside Dean Smith and helped create a robust defence for Villa, it seemed, like his contemporaries, that Terry would move on to even bigger things. It appeared that he was aiming to be the main man somewhere, progressing to be a head coach.

But Terry hasn’t found anything that sticks just yet. Although his intentions to coach are still clear to see, it is possible he is just being patient.

As a Chelsea legend, it is no surprise that his ultimate aim would be to manage the club, following in the footsteps of his ex-teammate Lampard. But he seems to be waiting for the right time and to build up his experience beforehand, unlike Lampard who jumped at the chance after only one full season of management at Championship side, Derby.

A consultancy role at Chelsea’s academy may provide Terry with the best balance. Not only can he gain greater coaching experience but can be flexible if other opportunities arise whilst further understanding the DNA of Chelsea’s coaching programme. This will only enhance his chances in the future.

The role will see him coach and mentor youngsters at the club. Joining a team that includes: Head of Youth Development, Neil Bath; Development Squad Head Coach, Andy Myers; and fellow mentor and legend, Claude Makelele.

At an academy that has produced some of England’s greatest young talents, including Mason Mount, Reece James and Fikayo Tomori, John Terry will only add to the development of the club’s youth programme. With playing experience at the highest level and Premier League assistant coaching under his belt, he has a wealth of knowledge.

It will be interesting to not only see where John Terry’s future ultimately lies but also what he can add to the academy players, and whether his added expertise can shape even more exceptional English talent.

This is a patient step for the Chelsea Legend and one that can only aid his future aspirations of management and to take the reins at his beloved Chelsea.