The captaincy for the 2023-24 campaign at Chelsea Football Club has been officially bestowed upon defender Reece James, as confirmed on the Club’s website.
The void left by Cesar Azpilicueta’s departure earlier this summer left a vacant role within the squad, and it is now officially confired that James will be the one adorning the captain’s armband in the coming season.
The 23-year-old, who honed his skills within Chelsea’s youth program, has seamlessly integrated into the senior team, featuring in a whooping 147 matches across different competitions. This season has seen him netting 11 goals and contributing 20 assists.
Despite his status as an England international, his contributions on the field were sparse last season, with a total of just 24 appearances, a result of recurrent knee and hamstring challenges.
‘A boyhood Blues supporter who joined our academy at six years old, Reece was the club’s standout choice to lead us on and off the pitch this season,’ a statement on Chelsea’s official website reads.
‘I’m so happy to take on the role and responsibility,’ said James. ‘I know I’ve got big shoes to fill because we have had huge captains here in the past, but I am excited.’
‘I have been at Chelsea pretty much my whole life. I started here when I was six and to come through the academy is tough. But to go on and become captain, it’s a great feeling for me and my family.’
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Current Chelsea’s head coach Mauricio Pochettino also said: ‘This is a decision taken by me and the club. We are very pleased Reece will captain the side this season.’
‘He leads by example and his attitude and dedication to Chelsea has been clear throughout pre-season. He proudly wore the armband during our summer tour and will take up the challenge of leading our squad with his own approach and ideas.’
Co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart added in a joint statement: ‘Reece’s connection with Chelsea has been forged over 17 years. He understands the traditions of the club and the responsibilities that come with being captain.’
‘He knows the standards required to win at this club – both from his time in the Academy and the first team – and it is a very proud moment for Reece everyone connected to the club.’
Sources indicate that the primary competition for the captain’s role within the squad was between the Brazilian central defender, Thiago Silva, and James.
Chelsea’s preparations for the upcoming 2023-24 season were brought to a close as they played to a 1-1 draw against Borussia Dortmund in a pre-season friendly on August 2.
Currently, the Blues are gearing up to kick off their Premier League season by hosting Liverpool on Sunday afternoon.