Experienced signings will help captain James - Azpilicueta
Former Chelsea player Cesar Azpilicueta has praised the club's recent recruitment of experienced players, noting it will support captain Reece James in his leadership role. Azpilicueta expressed confidence in the team's future under manager Xabi Alonso.
Why it matters
Provides insight into Chelsea's strategic shift toward veteran leadership to stabilize a young squad and support a developing captain.
Cesar Azpilicueta has backed Chelsea's decision to sign experienced players this summer and believes it will help captain Reece James grow as a leader.
The Blues made their first signings aged over 30 in more than four years when they brought in Jordan Henderson, Danny Welbeck and Emiliano Martinez from Premier League rivals Brentford, Brighton and Aston Villa respectively.
James, who succeeded Azpilicueta as captain in 2023, was handed the role at the age of 23 and admitted he initially struggled with the responsibility during an injury-hit period. Former manager Enzo Maresca also publicly challenged him to improve his leadership.
However, both internally and externally, there is a belief that James has grown into the role after avoiding any lengthy injury absences over the past year.
Asked about James' progress as captain, Azpilicueta told BBC Sport: "Reece is still developing.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in