In a statement released this Wednesday, Chelsea has unveiled the name of its new captain, selected by coach Mauricio Pochettino. It is the English international Reece James. He succeeds César Azpilicueta, who has moved to Atletico Madrid.
“Reece James has officially been confirmed as the new captain of Chelsea Football Club. A childhood fan of the Blues who joined our academy at the age of six, Reece has been the club’s outstanding choice to lead us on and off the pitch this season,” the London club explains in its publication. “This is a decision made by me and the club. We are very pleased that Reece will be the team captain this season,” adds coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Reece James has been developed within the club, and the 23-year-old right-back player embodies the success of Chelsea’s youth development program. After progressing through all stages of his youth development within the club, the English international has climbed the ranks to become one of the best in his position.
“I am so happy to take on this role and responsibility. I have been at Chelsea for most of my life. I started here when I was six, and coming out of the Academy is tough. But to continue and become captain, it’s a great feeling for me and my family,” says the new captain of the Blues.
