Born October 20, 2007, Shumaira “Shim” Mheuka is an English professional footballer of Zimbabwean descent who plays as a forward for Chelsea. He is considered one of the most promising young strikers in Europe and has quickly risen through Chelsea’s academy ranks.
Early life and youth career: Mheuka was born in Birmingham, England, to Zimbabwean parents. His father, Malcolm Mheuka, was also a footballer. Mheuka joined Brighton’s academy at age nine and made his U18 debut at 14.
Club career: Mheuka joined Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion in July 2022. He quickly progressed through the academy, featuring regularly for the U18s and scoring 12 goals in 20 appearances during the 2023-2024 season. He made his first-team debut on December 12, 2024, in a UEFA Conference League match against Astana, and his Premier League debut on February 25, 2025, against Southampton. On March 6, 2025, he became Chelsea’s youngest European starter in a Conference League match against Copenhagen. In the 2025/2026 season, he started strongly for Chelsea’s U21 team, scoring four goals in three matches and being named Premier League 2 Player of the Month for August. He also became Chelsea U21 captain and recently scored a hat-trick in the UEFA Youth League against Benfica U19s.
International career: Mheuka has represented England at various youth levels (U15 to U19) and was part of England’s squad for the 2025 UEFA European Under-19 Championship. He remains eligible to play for Zimbabwe at the senior level.
Playing style: Primarily a center-forward, Mheuka is known for his power, technical ability, finishing, physicality, movement, link-up play, and pace. He is considered to have a “killer instinct” in front of goal.
Net worth and Salary: Shim Mheuka has an estimated net worth of $500,000.
While he has earned recognition and a starting role in a European match for the senior team, specific contract details and salaries for players of his age and current status are generally kept private. His earnings would reflect his status as a developing professional player within a top club’s academy structure.