Reece James named the new Chelsea skipper ahead of the Premier League 2023-24

Reece James has been confirmed as the new club captain at Chelsea. Cesar Azpilicueta had held the role since the start of the 2019/20 season but the Spanish defender left Stamford Bridge to join Atletico Madrid in July. James, 23, has been at Chelsea for almost two decades, having joined the club's youth academy at the age of six. Right-back James has played 98 Premier League games for Chelsea, scoring seven goals and providing seven assists.

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"I know I've got big shoes to fill because we have had huge captains here in the past, but I am excited. I have been at Chelsea pretty much my whole life as I started here when I was six and to come through the academy is tough. But to go on and become captain, it's a great feeling for me and my family," Reece James said after the announcement.

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino added: "This is a decision taken by me and the club. We are very pleased Reece will captain the side this season. He leads by example and his attitude and dedication to Chelsea has been clear throughout pre-season. He proudly wore the armband during our summer tour and will take up the challenge of leading our squad with his own approach and ideas."