In the wake of long-standing skipper Cesar Azpilicueta’s departure this summer, Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has appointed Reece James as the new captain of the Blues.
The decision comes after Azpilicueta, a stalwart at Stamford Bridge for over a decade, transferred away from the club. James, a product of Chelsea’s academy, donned the captain’s armband during the pre-season tour while Pochettino deliberated his decision. Now, the manager confirms that the armband will permanently be with James.
“This decision represents a joint conclusion between me and the club,” Pochettino declared. “Reece’s dedication to Chelsea and his attitude on and off the pitch throughout the pre-season have been commendable. He wore the armband with pride during our summer tour and we are confident he will embrace the challenge of leading our squad with his unique approach and vision.”
James, who has been with Chelsea since his childhood, will officially commence his tenure as club captain this Sunday. The Blues are set to launch their Premier League campaign against Liverpool at home, hoping to improve upon their 12th-place finish last season.
“I’m thrilled to take on the role and responsibility,” the England international expressed. “Being a part of Chelsea since I was six, I’m well aware of the big shoes I need to fill as we’ve had tremendous captains in the past. However, I’m eager to step up. The journey from the academy to becoming the captain is arduous but worth it. It’s a moment of great pride for me and my family.”
Captain of Chelsea. A real honour & proud moment for me & my family.
From the bottom of my heart I want to thank everyone that helped on the journey.
The role is new to me but I’ll do everything to lead our club back to where we belong. Winning titles.
See you at the Bridge. pic.twitter.com/BWmKFFLU3A
— Reece James (@ReeceJames) August 9, 2023
James debuted for Chelsea at the onset of the 2019-20 season during Frank Lampard’s inaugural term as manager. He is now nearing his 100th Premier League appearance and has participated in almost 150 matches in all competitions for his childhood club.
The 24-year-old also holds a position in the senior England squad, having made his first senior tournament appearance at Euro 2020. However, injury kept him off the field during the 2022 World Cup.
Co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart lauded the new captain in a statement. “Reece’s connection with Chelsea, spanning over 17 years, ingrains him with the traditions of the club and the responsibilities that come with being captain. He embodies the standards required to win at this club, as demonstrated in the Academy and the first team. This is a proud moment for Reece and all of us associated with Chelsea.”
The former captain, Azpilicueta, transferred to Atletico Madrid during the off-season. The Spanish international received high praise from Chelsea’s Chairman Todd Boehly and co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali.
“Cesar leaves an indelible mark on Chelsea as a warrior, a champion, and a loyal Chelsea legend,” Boehly and Eghbali said in a joint statement. “His ethos and performance over the past decade have set the benchmark for success at the club.”
