Reece James: ‘Fantastic’ Chelsea captain is back to his best

After Chelsea’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal, James was asked by Sky Sports whether his side had made a statement. His response was understated: “I think everyone can see where we are and what we are fighting for. I think today was a big statement. Even though we wanted to win, there are lots of positives to take.”

That calm authority reflects James’ evolution as Chelsea captain. Following Cesar Azpilicueta’s departure in 2023, James was handed the armband by Mauricio Pochettino. But early in Enzo Maresca’s reign, the Italian said he “expected more” and even told James so in a one-to-one meeting.

Since then, Maresca – publicly and privately – has been impressed with the response.

James is a quiet introvert away from the pitch and is not a man of many words. Instead, he leads with thoughtfulness.

He pulls players aside for quiet words, arranges team meals during difficult spells, and often leads by example, leaning on vice-captain Fernandez to be what one source describes as the “aggressive leader”.

However, this season, James has also been seen urging more aggression from teenage winger Estevao Willian in September against Brighton, who credits him with helping him adapt to English football.

He has also introduced a half-time ritual where the entire squad gathers in the centre circle before leaving the pitch together – a small gesture that reinforces unity that was lacking during Chelsea’s rebuild.

The Chelsea captain looks beyond football for inspiration. He has built friendships with South Africa rugby union skipper Siya Kolisi and Formula One star Lewis Hamilton.

That personal growth bodes well for England in a World Cup year. It was Thomas Tuchel – now England manager – who first elevated James to a new level at Stamford Bridge and the pair achieved Champions League glory in 2021.

Despite not playing for England since 2022, James was recalled by Tuchel in March. It marked a significant moment after the disappointment of missing the 2022 World Cup through injury and Euro 2024 through non-selection.

Tuchel described James as at the “highest level” in March and he is proving to be in both midfield and in his favoured right-back position this season.