Chelsea Women: 18-year-old midfielder Akpan heads off to Birmingham City on loan

One of Chelsea Women's top midfield Academy talents has moved on loan for the first time in her career. On Thursday, it was officially announced that 18-year-old Ashanti Akpan will be heading to the West Midlands to play for Birmingham City Women FC on a season-long loan.

Akpan, who started three of England's four games at the 2024 UEFA Women's Under-19 Championship this summer, signed her first professional contract with the West London club last December. The deal runs until next summer, with an option for a one-year extension. So, you can't help but think that this loan spell will likely be crucial in determining whether that option is exercised.

"I'm really excited to be in the Championship this season," said Akpan. "I think it is going to be a very good experience. It's going to be quite challenging so I'm really up for that. I think I can learn a lot from that, so I'm really excited for my development."

The midfielder has been at Chelsea since the age of seven, first joining in August 2013. During her time at the Academy levels, she helped the Blues lift the FA Youth Cup in 2021/22 and the FA WSL Academy Cup in 2022/23.

Back under the tutelage of a familiar face, this loan to Birmingham City should be a position one for Akpan

This move makes a lot of sense, largely due to familiarity. At such a young age, transitioning to a new environment is easier when you feel comfortable. Akpan has that advantage, having worked under new City boss Amy Merricks during her stint as England U-19 head coach from April to November 2023. Merricks took the helm at the Championship outfit this past April, signing a three-year deal.

Additionally, Akpan played alongside Birmingham forward Louanne Worsey at this summer's U-19 European Championship. Ava Baker, who joined Blues Women in late June, also represents England at the U-19 level but didn't make the 20-player roster for the Euros.

"I'm really excited to be working with her again," Akpan said on linking back up with Merricks. "She's a great coach so I'm excited to learn even more from her."

Brooke Aspin, Lexi Potter, and Cerys Brown of Chelsea were also teammates of Akpan during England's run to the semifinals in Lithuania.

She'll have the opportunity to learn from and play alongside veterans such as Christie Harrison-Murray, Lily Agg, and Lucy Quinn.

The Championship looks different this season, with Birmingham City competing among 11 teams instead of the usual 12 after Reading's withdrawal due to financial difficulties. Last season, the West Midlands side finished fifth, 10 points behind league winners Crystal Palace. Blues Women will kick off their 2024/25 campaign at St. Andrew's @ Knighthead Park against Sunderland on September 8.