Tyrique George Reveals the “Best Decision” That Changed His Chelsea Career Forever
Tyrique George, one of Chelsea’s most promising young talents, has opened up about the pivotal childhood decision that helped shape his path to professional football.Now 19 and a rising star within Chelsea’s senior squad, George scored in the club’s 3-0 victory over ES Tunis this week, helping secure their place in the last 16 of the Club World Cup. But the winger says none of it would’ve been possible without a tough but life-changing move made when he was just 12.
From Camden to Croydon: A Big Sacrifice
Originally from Camden, George recalled how his family relocated to south Croydon so he could be closer to Chelsea's Cobham training ground—a decision he didn’t want at the time, but one he now sees as crucial."I was living in Camden and then I moved to south Croydon when I was 12 to another school. It was a tough move, to be fair. I didn’t really want to move. I left behind most of my mates," George explained.
“All my friends were in north London, so me moving away to a completely new area was tough. But I eventually enjoyed it and it was closer to training, so after a month or two, it wasn’t too bad.”
Honouring His Mother’s Support
Before the move, George’s mother—who worked full-time as a teacher—would accompany him on long train rides after school from Camden to Cobham and back, all to support his football dream.“I used to get the train with my mum from Camden to Cobham after school both there and back, which was really long. I’ve got no clue what lines we took. I'd just get on the train with mum,” he shared.
“She put in all those hours for me. She didn’t have to do it. She took me to training after she’d finished work—there and back—tired. But it was worth it.”
A Career on the Rise
The decision paid off. George has now made 26 senior appearances this season, showing composure and attacking flair far beyond his years.While Chelsea are actively targeting more attacking options this summer, George says he’s ready for any challenge ahead—including a potential loan spell to gain further experience in the 2025–26 season.
“I’m not really too sure,” he said when asked about his future. “There’s always going to be competition whether they do sign one [a new forward] or not. I’m always ready to learn from them. I learn from all the forward players.”
