A 10-year-old footballer from Acton who plays in Chelsea FC’s academy has become a published author after writing a story urging fans to reject racism in football.
Joylen Teixeira, a pupil at Holy Family Catholic Primary School in West Acton, wrote Racism in Football after learning about the abuse directed at England players Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho following the Euro 2020 final.
His story has been published in Our Stories Our World, a national anthology showcasing the work of young writers from across the UK.
Joylen, who also plays for Northfields FC Under-11 Reds, said: “Everyone wants England to win, but football is only a game. Every player is trying their best and nobody deserves abuse because they make a mistake.
“Winning is amazing, but kindness is more important. I hope every player knows children like me are proud of them whatever happens.”
In his story, Joylen writes: “Football is a beautiful sport. It brings people, communities and nations together.”
He adds: “Racism should be stopped, and people should come together in love and unity. Everybody deserves to be treated with respect and fairness.”
