Chelsea Players Face Backlash After Ignoring Young Mascots Ahead of FA Cup Match Against Hull City at MKM Stadium

Chelsea’s Premier League squad has come under intense scrutiny after footage emerged showing the team seemingly ignoring a group of young mascots prior to their FA Cup match against Hull City.

The video, shared on the club’s official account, has sparked a storm of criticism from fans, pundits, and even Chelsea supporters.

The Incident at MKM Stadium

The incident took place at the MKM Stadium before kick-off on Friday.

Hull City had gathered a group of excited young mascots near the away dressing room, ready to meet the visiting Chelsea stars.

In the 31-second clip, captain Reece James and several senior players, including Robert Sanchez and Joao Pedro, can be seen walking straight past the children.

At one point, Liam Delap appeared to approach the youngsters but instead diverted to hug a Hull staff member from his previous time at the club.

By the end of the video, the children were left standing alone, unnoticed by the visiting squad.

Fans React with Outrage

The video has now been viewed over 2.8 million times, igniting widespread anger across social media platforms.

Comments ranged from disappointment to outright disgust.

GB News presenter Michelle Dewberry tweeted, “You should be ashamed your players act like this with these little boys.

Instead, you’re proud and desperate to share it. Gross.”

Other fans criticized the Chelsea administration for posting the clip, calling the players “entitled divas” and “overpaid and self-centred.”

Many stressed how a simple smile, wave, or high-five could have made a huge difference to the young mascots, even if they supported the home team.

Victory on the Pitch

Despite the off-field controversy, Chelsea’s performance in the FA Cup tie was dominant.

The Blues ran out 4-0 winners, thanks to a hat-trick from Pedro Neto and a goal from Estevao, securing their place in the fifth-round draw set for Monday evening.

Broader Questions About Player Conduct

The incident raises questions about the professionalism and public image of top-flight footballers.

Youth engagement and community outreach are increasingly important to clubs, not just as goodwill but as part of broader sporting culture.

Moments like these are often remembered by young fans for a lifetime — making the apparent oversight all the more notable.

It is unclear whether any other players or coaching staff acknowledged the mascots after the video was taken, leaving the narrative largely shaped by the initial clip.

What’s Next?

Chelsea may need to address the fallout publicly to restore trust with fans and the wider football community.

Internal discussions, apologies, or engagement initiatives could follow to ensure that young supporters feel valued, regardless of which team they support.

Meanwhile, the team will turn its focus back to league and cup competitions as they look to maintain momentum on the pitch.

Summary

Chelsea players faced a wave of criticism after ignoring young mascots before their FA Cup match against Hull City at the MKM Stadium.

The 31-second clip featuring captain Reece James and other senior players sparked outrage online, highlighting concerns about player conduct and fan engagement.

Despite the controversy, Chelsea secured a 4-0 win and advanced to the fifth round of the FA Cup, leaving questions about accountability and public image unresolved.