What Reece James did to Thiago Silva as soon as Chelsea vs Bournemouth ended
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It has been an extremely frustrating season for Chelsea captain Reece James. Injuries and suspensions have plagued his campaign, culminating in his absence from Chelsea’s final match of the season due to a red card received in their 2-1 win against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Limited Appearances
James managed to make only 10 Premier League appearances this season, with just five of those being starts. Despite these setbacks, he remained active and engaged with his teammates after Chelsea’s victory over Bournemouth.
Pochettino’s Prediction for Next Season
Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has made a prediction about James for the 2024/25 campaign, hinting at a potential comeback.
Thiago Silva’s Farewell
The Bournemouth game also marked the end of Thiago Silva’s time at Chelsea. The veteran central defender is leaving to join Fluminense after failing to secure a new contract with the Blues. After the final whistle, James immediately went over to Silva, embracing him in a heartfelt moment. Silva, who made 155 appearances for Chelsea and helped the club win their second Champions League trophy, is beloved in West London.
Competition for the Starting Spot
Although Silva will not be part of Chelsea’s lineup next season, James could also face challenges in retaining his spot in the first XI. Discipline has been an issue for the England international, who received two red cards this season. His deputy, Malo Gusto, has had an excellent campaign and could potentially take over the starting role.
Malo Gusto’s Impact
Gusto has been impressive across all competitions, registering nine assists as a fullback. According to FBref, he ranks in the 93rd percentile for touches in the attacking penalty area, highlighting his offensive prowess. If James doesn’t improve his form and discipline, he might find himself on the bench more often next season.
Conclusion
Reece James has had a challenging season, but with Pochettino’s support and a focus on regaining his form, there’s hope for a stronger performance in the 2024/25 campaign. However, with Malo Gusto’s rising profile, James will need to work hard to secure his place in Chelsea’s starting lineup.
