Soccernet.ng reports that Lesley Chimuanya Ugochukwu, a talented defensive midfielder who currently plays for Chelsea and France, recently took a trip to Nigeria to visit his family. The 19-year-old player, who joined Chelsea from Stade Rennais in the French Ligue 1 last summer, shared photos of his trip on social media.

Lesley’s time at Stade Rennais was unfortunately cut short due to a hamstring injury, which kept him sidelined for six weeks. Despite this setback, the young midfielder has shown promise and has played in 10 league games for Chelsea under coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Stade Rennais has gained recognition for its ability to nurture and develop black talents in French football, with players like Ousmane Dembele and Eduardo Camavinga emerging from their academy.

Lesley, who has Nigerian heritage and is the nephew of former Super Eagles and Seattle Sounders defender Onyekachi Apam, has the option to represent Nigeria on the international stage. However, he has previously represented France at the U-19 and U-21 levels.

During his break from football, Lesley has been enjoying quality time with his family in Nigeria. He shared an Instagram story photo that was taken in Owerri, Delta State, according to the location tag in the picture.