“Not a Proper Leader” — Maresca blasts Chelsea Captain

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has questioned Reece James’ impact as the team captain, saying he “expected more” from the 24-year-old defender in terms of leadership both on and off the pitch.

Handed the captain’s armband last season, James was hailed as the face of a new Chelsea era. However, a hamstring injury sidelined him early this campaign, delaying his return to action.

After playing just 53 minutes in last weekend’s 2-1 loss to Liverpool, the spotlight on James’ leadership has only intensified, with Maresca challenging him to redefine his role as captain.

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In an interview, Maresca noted a common misconception among young captains, where they expect increased respect simply due to the title. “For me,” Maresca explained, “because you are the captain, you have to give more. You have to give more than the rest.”

With his return to fitness, the pressure is on James to lead Chelsea’s turnaround in what has been a rocky start to the season.

As fans await to see how the captain will respond to his manager’s pointed comments, one thing is clear—James’ leadership journey has only just begun, and it’s time to show he can live up to the expectations.