Chelsea star 'hurt' but not considering Real Madrid

Cameron Smith

• 10 Jul 2023 15:23 BST
• 3 min read

Reece James’ father, Nigel, has admitted that his son was “hurt” by Chelsea’s poor form last season, but insisted that he remains fully focused on the Blues, despite speculation of interest from Real Madrid.

Chelsea suffered their worst ever points tally in Premier League history last season and finished the season in 12th place after a dismal run under interim boss Frank Lampard, who replaced Graham Potter in April.

James, 23, made just 16 Premier League appearances last season after suffering two separate knee injuries, as well as a hamstring problem too.

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In fact, the England international’s 25 league starts during the 2020/21 season remains his highest ever tally of Premier League starts in a single campaign.

James’ persistent injury problems prompted Chelsea to sign talented full-back Malo Gusto from Lyon in January, who is expected to be a key player in the first-team squad at Stamford Bridge this season.

However, the 23-year-old remains committed to Chelsea and the acquisition of Gusto is reportedly not linked to Real Madrid’s interest in James.

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Furthermore, his father, Nigel, has revealed that James sees himself as a future leader at the west London club.

What has Reece James’ father said?

Speaking on The Beautiful Game Podcast, James’ father said: “His [Reece’s] ambition is to wear Chelsea armband and captain the side. It broke his heart the season that we've had just gone. Losing games... it really hurt him.”

Mauricio Pochettino is yet to name Cesar Azpilicueta’s replacement as Chelsea captain following the Spaniard’s departure to Atletico Madrid, with James potentially one of the possibilities for the role. Thiago Silva would likely be another option, while Kepa Arrizabalaga wore the armband on several occasions last season.

Real Madrid were heavily interested in James last year, with reports suggesting they would make a full-blooded attempt to sign him in 2023.

However, Los Blancos have focused their attention on the acquisitions of Jude Bellingham, Fran Garcia, Arda Guler and Joselu (loan) so far this summer, and James doesn’t appear to be on their wish-list right now.