Jordi Tomasowa26 Oct 2024, 12:45
Last updated: Oct 26, 2024, 12:45
Enzo Maresca has been critical of Reece James as manager of Chelsea. The Italian coach had expected more leadership from his 24-year-old captain, who has just recovered from a long-term injury.
James became Chelsea captain in 2023 under former manager Mauricio Pochettino, but has not made more than twelve official matches in all competitions since the start of last season due to several hamstring injuries and two red cards.
The England international played his first minutes of the season last Sunday against Liverpool (1-2 loss). the Blues. Now fit again, Maresca has publicly challenged the right-back to be more present, both on and off the pitch.
“I spoke to James and I expected more from him in terms of leadership, in the locker room and for several other things,” Maresca told reporters. The Telegraph.
“Reece is on his way back and is making progress in terms of fitness, but I also expected more from him in terms of leadership. For me it is true that you have to give more because you are captain. You have to give more than the rest. He is one of the captains, so I, and his teammates, expected him to always give more when it comes to leadership in general.”
Maresca believes that there are few leaders in his selection, although he does think that defenders Tosin Adarabioyo, Levi Colwill and Marc Cucurella have the required qualities.
“James understands that we expected more from him. He is one of the players from our own youth academy. This is one of the reasons why he needs to show more personality. If you don’t have a real leader in your squad, some guys have to grow into that role.”
