Chelsea captain Reece James has admitted that he needed time to adjust to his leadership role having been appointed when he was aged 23.
The defender is set to lead the Blues out for the first time in a final as they face Real Betis in the Conference League final in Wroclaw on Wednesday, with the club aiming to secure their first piece of silverware since 2021.
Earlier this season, head coach Enzo Maresca criticised James for not fulfilling his leadership responsibilities adequately, particularly during a period when he was sidelined due to injury. That hamstring issue was just one in a series of fitness setbacks that have marred much of the last three seasons for the now 25-year-old.
However, having remained injury-free since January, he is currently enjoying his best form in years and has played a crucial part in Chelsea's impressive Premier League run-in, which culminated in them securing a Champions League spot on Sunday. “I think one thing to remember is captains and leaders are made, they’re not born,” said James.
“I got given the role at such a young age, when I was going through a difficult period, I had a lot of injuries, I wasn’t on the pitch so much. So it was definitely hard during my first season as captain. But I think I’ve grown so much in helping the team, the more I play.”
A win against Betis in Poland would round off what could be considered the best week Chelsea have experienced since the current owners took over in 2022 and initiated a series of sweeping changes. The 1-0 victory against Nottingham Forest on Sunday guaranteed European football for the first time since Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital took over the club, achieving Maresca's primary target for the campaign.
While the Conference League may have seemed a secondary focus, even in its late stages, James insisted they have taken the tournament seriously. "I think the message from the manager was clear from day one,” he said. “You can’t neglect any competition you’re in and you need to give it your all.
“At the end of the day, it’s a huge European competition. Look at the final we’re in tomorrow against such a big team with so much history. I think he’s helped us a lot this season and played a big part in us reaching the final and securing the Champions League (qualification).”