Chelsea’s late comeback against Fulham offered more than just three points—it may have signaled a much-needed turning point in Reece James’s season. As the Blues continue to navigate a challenging campaign, the club captain finds himself at the center of a tactical rethink that could redefine both his form and his future.
James’s performances this season have come under intense scrutiny. This is not just because he is a leader but because of his recent experimentation playing out of position. But with Malo Gusto’s injury set to keep him out for the rest of the season, reverting back to his natural position on the right side of defense could be exactly what James needs to get back to a state of consistency and confidence.
Chelsea cap off a stunning comeback against London rivals Fulham with 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 Pedro Neto rocket 🚀
93rd minute. Up steps the man from Portugal. And it’s pure scenes in the away end at Craven Cottage. pic.twitter.com/SIpixD9u5D
— Optus Sport (@OptusSport) April 20, 2025
Chelsea Must Reinstate Stability at Right-Back
When Enzo Maresca chose to reimagine James as a central midfielder back in the early part of this year, it was considered a daring experiment. The plan had merit on paper—James has the technical skills, passing range, and vision to make a difference in central areas. But as games went by, so did the proof that this move wasn’t straightforward.
In midfield, James tended to lack spatial awareness and quick decision-making in pressured situations—two qualities that are not negotiable in the engine room. Against Aston Villa in February and again more recently against Legia Warsaw, he was caught in possession on several occasions in precarious areas. Though he did display flashes of quality, the consistency wasn’t there.
The mistake that led to Fulham’s goal further highlighted the challenges James faces in adapting to new roles. Closed down quickly by Ryan Sessegnon, his miscontrol sparked the chain of events that led to Alex Iwobi’s opener. It was a reminder that a player still managing his fitness after injury layoffs may not benefit from additional tactical strain.
Gusto’s muscle injury now leaves the way open for James to take over the right-back position without automatic competition. With few domestic games remaining and the Club World Cup looming, this comeback could be the stability and clarity the team and player alike require.
The Bigger Picture for Player Development
Placing James back at right-back does more than help Chelsea in the near term. It could also help his long-term growth by enabling him to develop the basics. At his best, James is one of the Premier League’s top full-backs.
Notably, the right-back role provides a more sustainable physical demand than midfield, particularly in Maresca’s system. For a player such as James, who has suffered multiple bouts of hamstring problems, this could be critical to sustaining match fitness and not experiencing setbacks. Maresca now also has other central midfield options to choose from. Romeo Lavia’s return provides the manager with more flexibility in resting Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez. While Lavia remains ineligible for European competition, his return allows James to take a break from midfield responsibilities without the team becoming short-handed.
James’s journey as captain is another aspect to look at. Chelsea’s inconsistency this season has compounded the pressure and responsibility that come with donning the armband. Grasping his natural position might assist him in leading by example better—something that was seen in his calm post-match analysis following the Warsaw defeat, which earned Maresca’s public accolades.
With the campaign now in its last quarter, Chelsea require clarity, consistency, and leadership. James, when playing in his best position, provides all three. His temporary loan in midfield may have provided some tactical awareness, but the right-back position is where he can really excel.
And now, with Gusto probably out and Lavia returning to the fray, the window of opportunity is wide open. It’s time for Reece James to revert back to basics, spearhead from the flank, and stabilize a Chelsea side which is still trying to find itself.
Will a return to right-back unlock Reece James’ best version? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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