For many years now, Chelsea’s Reece James has been compared with Real Madrid’s Trent Alexander-Arnold.
When Alexander-Arnold was at Liverpool, both players were two of the best right-backs in the Premier League. Alexander-Arnold and James are also rivals for the right-back spot in the England team, another reason for all the comparisons.
James has often got the nod, with many believing that he is better than Alexander-Arnold defensively. The Real Madrid star’s one-v-one defending has been heavily criticised, which has led to James defending his England teammate in the past.
James has felt that the comparisons made between the two have not always been fair, as Alexander-Arnold had less defending to do at Liverpool and, ultimately, fewer opportunities to showcase his defensive ability.
Speaking about Alexander-Arnold back in 2022 via Goal, James said: “I make mistakes as well. I gave away a penalty against Hungary so we are both still learning our trade.
“Liverpool have 95 per cent of the ball and he defends less than I have to. People have a lot of stuff to say and don’t really know the game. Trent is a great player.”
Alexander-Arnold is now being linked with a move to James’ Chelsea. According to TEAMtalk, the Blues are one of several clubs monitoring Alexander-Arnold’s situation at Real Madrid.
The England international has been in and out of the Real Madrid team this season and is said to be growing frustrated with not being a regular starter. Under Jose Mourinho, he has made just three starts in La Liga.
Alexander-Arnold’s attacking ability means he could be perfect for the right wing-back position in Xabi Alonso’s 3-4-2-1 set-up. However, Pedro Neto is doing a great job there right now.
Neto was fantastic both offensively and defensively against Everton over the weekend, scoring a brace for his side. If he becomes available, Alonso can also call upon Marco Palestra, who cost Chelsea £47m during the summer.
It is perhaps a risk because of his past hamstring injuries, but James is a right wing-back option, too. In fact, a fit James would be the best right wing-back at the club. The Chelsea captain is complete and can do practically anything on the football pitch.
Alexander-Arnold is a great footballer, but it is quite clear that he does not need to be an absolute priority for Chelsea next year.