Chelsea’s Reece James to Make a Strong Comeback, Says Pochettino

The Chelsea captain has had a tough season with injuries and now faces a four-game suspension that will carry over into the next season.

Mauricio Pochettino is confident that Chelsea captain Reece James will bounce back and shine as one of the Premier League’s top players next season, even though he’ll start the season suspended.

Reece James, the Chelsea and England full-back, has only played 11 games this season due to injuries and will miss Sunday’s final game against Bournemouth. He was sent off in the recent 2-1 win against Brighton, receiving his second red card of the season, leading to a four-game ban. This adds to his frustration, especially after undergoing surgery in December to fix his ongoing hamstring issues.

Despite these setbacks, Chelsea manager Pochettino believes in James’ potential to return to the top. He assured that the club will support James through this tough time.

“It’s been a very tough season for Reece, but we need to help him move on and accept his punishment,” said Pochettino. “The most important thing now is to support him, trust him, and help him get ready for pre-season so he can build his fitness. He’s talented, and I’m sure he’ll be one of the best players in the Premier League next season.”

On Sunday, fans will still get to see one of Chelsea’s stars, Brazilian great Thiago Silva. The 39-year-old was initially supposed to stay for just one season but has now been with Chelsea for four years. His impact has been so significant that he’s become a fan favorite and is even wanted back in the future.

Thiago Silva will return to his boyhood club, Fluminense, this summer on a two-year deal, extending his career past his 40th birthday. The Brazilian defender, with 113 caps for Brazil, has played over 150 games for Chelsea, winning the Champions League, Club World Cup, and European Super Cup.

Silva plans to move into coaching after he retires, and both he and Chelsea have discussed a future role for him on the coaching staff at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea also plans to sign another center-back to replace Silva this summer.

Before Silva leaves, Chelsea fans will honor him with a tribute banner at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. Pochettino acknowledged that Silva’s departure will be a significant loss for the team.

“We will miss Thiago,” said Pochettino. “He has had a fantastic career, including his time at Chelsea, and we will definitely miss him. It’s always hard when a big character leaves, but we wish him all the best for the future and are extremely grateful for his contributions.