Chelsea have appointed Reece James as the club’s new captain ahead of the 2023/24 season.
With the departure of Cesar Azpilicueta, it became important to confirm who would take up the mantle of leadership at the club.
Azpilicueta was captain of Chelsea from 2019 till he departed Stamford Bridge on the 6th of July 2023.
The Spaniard led the Blues to several successes as skipper, including; 1 Champions League title, 1 UEFA Super Cup and 1 FIFA Club World Cup.
Reece James will now take on the massive captaincy role of leading one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
James has made 147 appearances for Chelsea, scoring 11 goals and providing 20 assists across all competitions.
The Englishman graduated from the academy of the 2-time Champions League winners in 2018 and he has overtime displayed his undying support to the club.
He was an important member of the Chelsea team that won the Champions League in 2021, defeating Manchester City in the final.
Reece James happy at being named Chelsea new captain
Following his appointment on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, as Chelsea’s new captain, Reece James spoke about his happiness at being named captain and he acknowledged that he has got huge responsibilities on his shoulders.
“I’m so happy to take on the role and responsibility, I know I’ve got big shoes to fill because we have had huge captains here in the past, but I am excited”, he said.
James was a huge subject of conversation in June 2023, when he made a brash remark to an Arsenal supporter.
The 23-year-old replied to a fan insinuating that he should join their London rivals this summer.
Reece James responded negatively to the request and his reply further endeared him to Chelsea supporters.
Many demanded that he should be chosen as the Blues new captain and fast-forward to August 2023, those fans now have their requests granted.
Manager Mauricio Pochettino also spoke highly of James, praising the defender’s attitude and dedication.
Pochettino said: “He leads by example and his attitude and dedication to Chelsea has been clear throughout pre-season.”
Ben Chilwell appointed as Chelsea Vice-captain
Meanwhile, alongside Reece James, Ben Chilwell has been appointed as Chelsea’s new vice-captain.
Chilwell joined the Blues from Leicester City on August 26, 2020, for a transfer fee of €50.2 million.
The 26-year-old has made 123 appearances for Chelsea, scoring 4 goals and providing 12 assists in all competitions.
Chelsea will commence their 2023/24 Premier League season on Sunday, August 12, 2023 with a home clash against top-four rivals Liverpool.
The Blues would be hoping for positive fortunes this season under Mauricio Pochettino, having experienced an horrendous 2022/23 campaign.
The Stamford Bridge club have already made 6 signings this summer, namely; Christopher Nkunku, Axel Disasi, Nicolas Jackson, Lesley Ugochukwu, Robert Sánchez and Ângelo.
However, they face a massive blow prior to the start of the season, as new-signing Christopher Nkunku has been ruled out of action for about 16 weeks.
