Reece James captain– Defender Reece James has been appointed as the new captain of Chelsea ahead of the 2023/24 season, replacing his senior teammate Cesar Azpilicueta, who left Stamford Bridge during this summer’s transfer window.
Azpilicueta bid farewell to Chelsea to join Atletico Madrid, and many sources had predicted that veteran Thiago Silva would take on the responsibility of wearing the captain’s armband for Chelsea. However, Manager Mauricio Pochettino has decided to select Reece James as the leader in the team’s dressing room for the London club.
“I’m really thrilled to take on this role and responsibility. I know there will be challenges in this role because we’ve had great captains in the past, but I’m very excited. I’ve been associated with Chelsea almost my entire life. I started here at the age of 6 and overcame the difficulties of the academy. But to continue and become the captain of the team, it’s an amazing feeling for me and my family,” shared James.
Manager Pochettino commented on the decision to appoint James as captain: “This is my decision and the club’s decision. We’re very pleased that Reece will be the captain of the team this season. He’s a great role model, and his attitude and dedication to Chelsea have been evident throughout the pre-season period. He proudly wore the captain’s armband during our summer tour and will embrace the challenge of leading our team by bringing his own approach and ideas.”
Reece James progressed through the academy ranks at Chelsea, with his only departure from the club being a loan spell at Wigan in 2018. This right-back was promoted to Chelsea’s first team by Frank Lampard in the 2019/20 season. He even scored in his debut match against Grimsby Town.
James has made 147 appearances for Chelsea, winning the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup. The 23-year-old player may lead Chelsea for the first time as captain when they face Liverpool in the opening match of the Premier League season at home this weekend.
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