Champions League 2024-25
Reese James is out of action, Image Source Twitter

Reese James will not return to the field anytime soon for Chelsea given his hamstring injury in the pre-season match six weeks ago against Real Madrid. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed there’s no specific timeline for the team’s captain to return.

With the Champions League tournament on, Maresca has had to relook at Chelsea’s defense and strategy. He told the media that James, 24, needs more recovery time. The club has to wait until their right wing is fit. The coach said there’s a bit of delay but the most important thing for him and any injury is that the player has to come back when they are 100 percent fit.

Maresca said Chelsea cannot say anything about James’ return date. They hope to find the right solution to get on with the matches. He shared that their captain was unlucky in the sense that they planned to change him 65 minutes in the match against Real Madrid, but he got injured after 62 or 63 minutes.

Also Read: Man City Faces Uncertainty With Kevin De Bruyne Injury: Champions League 2024-25

Chelsea with Injured Players

Image Credit: Chelsea FC

As of late, Chelsea has witnessed several of its key players with injuries. Maresca highlighted that Malo Gusto has been seeing over things more than capably, but he’s also out which leaves the team shorthanded in the right back position.

He said Axel Disasi faced challenges when he tried to fill in, but Wesley Fofana and Josh Acheampong are looking bright. The Chelsea coach believes Josh has potential and can rise to the top. Maresca pointed out that he has some experience with young players and likes to modify them, as they can adapt quite quickly.