Chelsea confirm César Azpilicueta's replacement as captain

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Richard Buxton·9 August 2023

Chelsea have named Reece James as the club’s new club captain.

The England international takes over the armband from César Azpilicueta, who joined Atlético de Madrid this summer.

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James has made 147 appearances since graduating to the first-team ranks at Stamford Bridge in the 2019/20 season.

Chelsea captain. 💙
– Wednesday, 9 August 2023

“This is a decision taken by me and the club. We are very pleased Reece will captain the side this season,” said Mauricio Pochettino.

“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.”

James will lead out Chelsea for the first time in their Premier League opener against Liverpool on Sunday.