Reece James Sidelined Again: Chelsea Captain Suffers Another Hamstring Setback
It’s another tough break for Chelsea captain Reece James, as head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed in a Thursday press conference that the 24-year-old defender has picked up yet another hamstring injury. This latest setback means James will miss Chelsea’s Premier League clash against Leicester City this weekend.
James’ injury woes have been a recurring theme over the past few seasons. After a grueling five-month layoff, he only recently returned to action during Chelsea’s 2-1 loss to Liverpool on Oct. 20. Now, just a month later, he’s back on the sidelines.
“We have for sure just one injured player, that is Reece,” Maresca said. “Unfortunately, he felt something small, and we don’t want to take any risk for the weekend. So it’s only one for sure that is not available for this weekend. The rest, some of them are better, some of them are still a doubt. We have to see.”
When pressed for more details about the injury, Maresca explained, “Hamstring. It’s a muscular problem. We don’t want to take, as I said, any risks for this weekend. Hopefully, it’s not something long.”
A History of Hamstring Troubles
James’ struggles with hamstring injuries have been well-documented. Last season, he managed just 482 minutes of first-team football due to persistent issues. In December 2023, he underwent surgery in an attempt to resolve the problem, but the troubles didn’t end there. During Chelsea’s preseason tour of the United States this summer, James suffered another hamstring injury, further delaying his return to full fitness.
Since his October comeback, Maresca has been cautious with James’ workload, stating on Oct. 18 that the player’s body couldn’t handle two matches in a week. Despite this, James started in consecutive games against Liverpool, Newcastle, and Manchester United, and even made a brief eight-minute appearance in Chelsea’s draw with Arsenal before the international break. Unfortunately, it seems the increased activity may have taken its toll.
James Speaks Out
In the wake of this latest setback, James took to Instagram to share his thoughts and reassure fans. “This message is to the people that understand & have respect for what I’m going through … I appreciate you so much, your support and kind messages go further than you could ever imagine,” he wrote. “I’m doing okay, been better and also been worse. Another challenge ahead accepted. Eventually, I’ll come out on top. Against all odds.”
It’s clear that James is determined to overcome this challenge, but the road ahead won’t be easy. For Chelsea fans, it’s another frustrating chapter in the story of a player whose immense talent has often been overshadowed by his injury struggles.
Maresca’s Return to Leicester
Saturday’s match at the King Power Stadium will be a special one for Maresca, as it marks his first return to Leicester City since leading the team to the Championship title and promotion to the Premier League last season. Maresca, who was appointed Chelsea’s head coach on May 31, spoke fondly of his time at Leicester.
“I’m excited and thankful, it was a fantastic season,” he said. “The owner, his family are fantastic people. They care for players, staff, all of the people that work in the club. You can see that. It was a fantastic season because I met good people. There was a fantastic connection between the players and staff, and that is something you have to create to be successful. I’m still in contact with them, it was fantastic.”
When asked if he feels he’s grown as a coach since leaving Leicester, Maresca replied, “To be honest, I work every day to become better. I hope [so] because I like to see things and analyse. We try to improve players but also improve staff. I try to improve every day. I don’t know if I’m better or worse, but I’m always curious to see things and study. That’s the only thing I focus on.”
What’s at Stake?
Chelsea currently sit third in the Premier League table after 11 matches, nine points behind league leaders Liverpool. Meanwhile, Leicester are 15th, just three points above the relegation zone. For Maresca, this match is more than just a reunion with his former club—it’s an opportunity to keep Chelsea in the title race while Leicester fight to stay out of the drop zone.
Key Takeaways
- Reece James will miss Chelsea’s match against Leicester due to a hamstring injury.
- James has struggled with recurring hamstring issues, limiting his playing time over the past few seasons.
- Enzo Maresca returns to Leicester for the first time since leading them to promotion last season.
- Chelsea are third in the Premier League, while Leicester are 15th and battling to avoid relegation.
As Chelsea fans hold their breath for updates on James’ recovery, all eyes will be on the King Power Stadium this weekend. Can Maresca’s men keep their momentum going without their captain, or will Leicester spoil the reunion? One thing’s for sure: the Premier League drama never stops.
Originally Written by: N/A
