Chelsea’s Wieke Kaptein Expresses Impatience While Learning from Teammates

Dutch teenager Wieke Kaptein, who scored her initial goal for Chelsea against Everton on Sunday, has expressed that she is adapting effectively to the club, describing it as feeling “like family.” The 19-year-old player transferred to the Blues during the 2023 summer transfer period from FC Twente. She was subsequently loaned back to FC Twente for the previous season, making this her inaugural campaign in the Women’s Super League. Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, she stated: “It’s a lovely club. I have a really good apartment – it’s a little bit outside London because it’s really busy in London. I’m not used to that!” She added, “I’m really happy to be here, it’s an honour to play with this badge on your heart.” The midfielder was instrumental in FC Twente’s league championship victory last season. She also holds the distinction of being the youngest Dutch player to participate in the Women’s World Cup, having made an appearance as a 17-year-old during the 2023 tournament. She registered her inaugural goal for Chelsea during the team’s 5-0 victory over Everton on Sunday, having entered the game as a substitute. However, she indicated an understanding that she will need to be patient for increased playing time. She elaborated on her perspective, stating: “As a footballer you want to play the important games, you want to play every game, but what I have in front of me – they are world class players.” She continued, “I’m learning a lot from them in training, on the pitch when I’m watching them, when I’m not on the field. When I play I hope I can help the team a lot.” Kaptein also admitted, “Of course I’m an impatient player but it’s good for me. I’m 19-years-old so it’s really good to be in this environment and to learn from Sjoeke (Nusken), from Erin (Cuthbert), from the midfielders, from every other player.”