Nigerian-heritage defender Ezenwata joins Brighton’s academy setup

Chetam Ezenwata has completed a move from Charlton Athletic to Brighton & Hove Albion, with the Nigerian-heritage centre-back set to continue his development in the club’s Under-18 team. His arrival places him in Brighton’s Premier League youth structure.

The move follows a standout season at Charlton, where Ezenwata was named the academy’s Player of the Season. The award recognised his progress during a campaign that strengthened his reputation as one of the club’s promising young defenders.

Ezenwata has also gained international youth experience with Team Nigeria. He featured at the Bayern Youth Cup in Germany, helping the side win the competition before taking the next step in his academy career at Brighton.

His signing was witnessed by members of his family, including his elder brother Chizzy Ezenwata. Chizzy is developing in English football with Chelsea’s Under-18 and Under-21 teams, giving the family another connection to the country’s academy system.

Ezenwata said the move was an important moment for him and his family after the work that had taken him to Brighton. He also stressed that the transfer marked the beginning of a fresh period of learning and competition, with his focus on improving as a player and making the most of the opportunities ahead.

The defender now has a new pathway to pursue at Brighton after progressing through Charlton’s academy. His previous academy award and youth tournament success provide the background to his move, while the U18 setup offers him a new environment in which to develop towards his ambition of playing professional football.