Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has called on captain Reece James to step up his leadership following the defender’s return from injury.
James, who has faced a series of injuries during his time at Chelsea, made his first appearance since December 2023 in a recent defeat against Liverpool.
Following his return, the former Leicester City boss appears to be dissatisfied with the player’s mannerism as the team’s captain.
“I spoke with him and I expect more in terms of leadership inside the changing room. He’s on the right path, making progress, but I believe he can do more.”
The manager emphasised that being captain means contributing more than others, saying, “Most players think that because they are captain, they should receive more support from the manager. No, as a captain, you need to give more.”
He reiterated that both James and his teammates expect him to elevate his leadership within the squad.
At just 24 years old, James has risen through Chelsea’s academy ranks and was appointed captain by former manager Mauricio Pochettino ahead of the 2023-24 season. However, his injury struggles limited him to only 11 appearances last season.
Maresca acknowledged that while James is progressing, he needs to develop a stronger personality as a leader. “He’s a reserved guy,” Maresca noted. “When you don’t have a proper leader, you need to build that. Reece is one who is on the way but still has work to do.”
As Chelsea prepares for their upcoming match against Newcastle at Stamford Bridge, Maresca hopes to see an improved display of leadership from James on and off the pitch.
