Jamie Carragher has recently joined Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca in questioning Reece James’ leadership qualities.
Carragher and Maresca’s Concerns: Is Reece James Ready to Lead Chelsea?
The Chelsea captain, regarded as one of the club’s key players, returned from an injury this season but has faced scrutiny over his influence in the dressing room and on the pitch.
Maresca’s concerns became public when he voiced his expectations for James to show more leadership within the team. He explained that while James has been progressing, he feels the defender needs to take greater initiative as captain.
Maresca emphasized that being captain comes with a responsibility to contribute more to the team’s cohesion and morale.
“Because you are the captain, you have to give more,” Maresca said, clarifying that the role demands both commitment on the field and vocal leadership.
Carragher, a former Liverpool defender and current Sky Sports analyst, seemed to echo these sentiments during Chelsea’s recent 2-1 victory over Newcastle.
He pointed to a moment when James lost track of Alexander Isak, who then scored for Newcastle, as evidence of James’ need to be more assertive.
Carragher remarked, “You’ve either got to do your job and run back or if you lose him, speak to your mate and pass on some information,” aligning with Maresca’s call for stronger leadership from James.
These remarks have sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some agreeing that James’ leadership is still developing, while others believe criticism should be tempered, given his recent return from injury.