Former Colchester United Defender Joins Essex Club

Mandela Egbo signs with National League South side Chelmsford City

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Mandela Egbo, a former defender for Colchester United, has joined National League South club Chelmsford City. Egbo made 82 appearances for Colchester between 2023 and 2025 before rejecting a new contract offer last summer. He has now linked up with his former Colchester teammate Lyle Taylor at Chelmsford.

Why it matters

Egbo's move to Chelmsford City represents an opportunity for the 28-year-old to continue his career at the non-league level after leaving Colchester United. The move also reunites him with a former teammate, potentially strengthening Chelmsford's squad as they compete in the National League South.

The details

Egbo made his Chelmsford debut as a second-half substitute in their 2-2 draw with Salisbury City on Saturday. The full-back revealed he had been in contact with Chelmsford for the past six months before finalizing the move, and is looking forward to meeting the club's supporters.

  • Egbo made 82 league and cup appearances for Colchester United between 2023 and 2025.
  • Egbo rejected a new contract offer from Colchester United last summer.
  • Egbo made his Chelmsford City debut as a second-half substitute on Saturday, February 22, 2026.

The players

Mandela Egbo

A 28-year-old former defender who played for Colchester United from 2023 to 2025 before joining Chelmsford City.

Lyle Taylor

A former Colchester United teammate of Egbo's who has also joined Chelmsford City.

Spencer

The Chelmsford City representative who has been in contact with Egbo for the past six months about joining the club.

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What they’re saying

“It's been on the cards for a while now, I have been in contact with Spencer for the past six months or so but I am finally here.”

— Mandela Egbo, Player (Chelmsford City website)

“We've got a very strong squad and I know Lyle, I know Archie and a few of the other lads from playing against them over the past few seasons.”

— Mandela Egbo, Player (Chelmsford City website)

“I'm looking forward to meeting all the Clarets fans, stick with us and we'll be pushing in the right direction.”

— Mandela Egbo, Player (Chelmsford City website)

What’s next

Egbo will look to make an immediate impact for Chelmsford City as they continue their push in the National League South.

The takeaway

Mandela Egbo's move to Chelmsford City represents an opportunity for the former Colchester United defender to continue his career at the non-league level, while also reuniting with a former teammate in Lyle Taylor as they aim to help the club succeed.