Blackburn Rovers centre-back Charlie Olson will spend the 2025/26 campaign with newly promoted League Two side Oldham Athletic after completing a season-long loan move.
The 20-year-old academy product has been with Rovers since the Under-12 age group and now makes the step up to EFL football, having impressed in his first taste of senior action last term. Olson spent the majority of the 2024/25 season on loan at Altrincham in the National League, where he made 25 starts in all competitions and was named the club’s Young Player of the Year.
Player and manager reaction
Speaking to the Oldham Times, Olson said:
“Oldham’s a big club with great support, and I’m looking forward to the challenge of helping the team this season. I played here last year and it’s by far the best atmosphere I’ve played in. So to call this place home for the season is something I’m really excited about.”
Latics boss Micky Mellon, who guided the club back to the EFL via the National League play-offs in June, believes Olson can make an immediate impact.
“Charlie is a player with real maturity for his age. He’s had a taste of senior football and shown he can handle it. We believe he’ll be a really strong addition to the squad.”
Next step in Olson’s development
Olson has been a regular for Blackburn’s Under-21s in recent years under coach Mike Sheron and signed professional terms in 2023 after completing his scholarship. His physical presence, composure on the ball and consistency in youth football have earmarked him as a player capable of making the transition to the first team in the coming seasons.
This loan spell offers him the chance to gain valuable experience in the Football League while providing Oldham with additional competition and depth at the back as they prepare for their return to League Two.
Writer’s View
This looks an ideal move for all parties. Olson has already proved himself capable in the National League and now has the opportunity to test himself in the EFL with a club that boasts strong home support and momentum from promotion.
For Blackburn, it is a crucial stage in his development, and regular minutes at Boundary Park could be the bridge he needs to stake a claim for a first-team role at Ewood Park in the near future.
