Former Chelsea youth star, 33, reveals he only has 'a few days left' as he shares he is losing battle with illness in heartbreaking message
Belgian international and former Chelsea star Romelu Lukaku posted a heartfelt message of support in the comments, urging the ex-midfielder to show 'courage' during the difficult time.
By BEN WILLCOCKS, ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR
Published: 16:00 GMT, 9 January 2026 | Updated: 16:00 GMT, 9 January 2026
Former Chelsea youth player Lamisha Musonda has revealed he may only have days left to live in a heartbreaking message on social media.
The Belgian, 33, shared that he has been fighting an illness over the past two years that has left his health in critical condition, and he now fears he may only have 'a few days left'.
Musonda, who began his youth career at Anderlecht before moving to Chelsea's academy in 2012, wrote in a devastating Instagram message on Thursday: 'As I realise I only have a few days left, I also realise I had a lot of people by my side and I’ll always cherish the memories. Life is hard but the view is great.
'Life has so many ups and downs and no one really knows the pain you’re dealing with. This has been a tough and gruelling couple of years for me. And it is with sadness that I must inform you that I’ve been struggling trying to get my health back to normal hence why I’ve been unable to come on social media.
'I had to come to grips that my health is in a critical condition and I am now just fighting to stay alive. I would greatly appreciate your help and prayers in this period.
'My family and I are fighting and I won’t quit until it is time for my last breath. As you can see here, I’ve been blessed with a beautiful early stage of my life.… so much more to give. 'But so many wonderful people I wish I had the chance to thank, face to face. It pains me that I might not have the chance to do so. I love you all. Lamisha.'
Former Chelsea youth player Lamisha Musonda has revealed he may only have days left to live
Romelu Lukaku and Marina Granovskaia posted heartfelt messages of support to Musonda
Belgian international and former Chelsea star Romelu Lukaku posted a heartfelt message of support to Musonda in the comments, urging the ex-midfielder to show 'courage' during the difficult time.
'Courage Lamisha,' the Napoli striker, 32, said. 'We are with you.'
Meanwhile, former Chelsea chief Marina Granovskaia, who served as a director at Stamford Bridge between 2014 and 2022, commented: 'I sincerely hope you manage to overcome your health struggles! Think of you and your family.'
She signed off her message with a blue-coloured love heart and a prayer emoji.
Musonda, whose brother Charles also went through Chelsea's academy and went on to make seven senior appearances for the Blues before moving on from the club in 2022, retired from professional football in 2019 when he was just 27 years old.
He made nine international appearances for the Belgian U21 side between 2011 and 2013, while representing club sides Mechelen, Liagostera B, Palamos and Mazembe during his career.