Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has publicly urged captain Reece James to step up his leadership game as he looks to inspire his team following a difficult season start. James, who recently returned from a long injury layoff in Chelsea’s 2-1 loss to Liverpool, is being called upon to show more personality and leadership both on and off the pitch.
Maresca’s comments come ahead of Chelsea’s upcoming Premier League fixture against Newcastle, where James is expected to play a pivotal role. The England right-back, known for his reserved nature, missed Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League victory against Panathinaikos but is set to return this Sunday. Maresca highlighted that, as the club captain, James is expected to lead by example, both in performance and in guiding his teammates.
“I spoke with him, and I expect more leadership from him inside the dressing room,” Maresca said. “He’s progressing well, but there’s room for more. Being captain means you need to give more than the rest, not less.”
Since being appointed as captain by former Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino, James has had limited appearances due to injury, with much of his captaincy being felt off the field. Conor Gallagher, who has since left Chelsea for Atletico Madrid, often filled the leadership void last season. Now, Maresca is looking for James to take on more responsibility, both vocally and through his performances.
Maresca emphasized the need for the 24-year-old to develop his leadership qualities further, especially with the lack of strong, established leaders within the current Chelsea squad. James’ rise through the Chelsea academy makes him a natural candidate for the role, but Maresca believes he needs to show more personality to fully embrace the responsibility.
“He’s our academy graduate, and that’s why we expect more from him in terms of leadership,” Maresca added. “He’s naturally reserved, but leadership needs to be built, especially when you lack a clear leader. Reece is on the right path, but he’s not there yet. It requires effort to become a leader.”
As Chelsea prepares for their Premier League clash against Newcastle, all eyes will be on Reece James, who is being called upon to lead his team in a crucial match. Fans and pundits alike will be watching to see if the right-back can rise to the challenge and provide the leadership Chelsea needs to turn their season around.
