Reece James suffers new injury setback as Chelsea prepare for season opener against Manchester City
Chelsea captain Reece James has reportedly suffered an injury setback as his side continue to prepare for their 2024-25 season opener against Manchester City. The England international has struggled with fitness issues over the last two seasons, but his problems despite surgery seemingly continue.
James missed out on most of the 2023-24 season after injuring his hamstring multiple times. The right-back underwent surgery to repair the problem in December, only returning to action at the tail end of the season. The 24-year-old is expected to play a significant role for the side this season, having played extensively in pre-season.
Fabrizio Romano and The Athletic have reported, however, that Reece James will not be starting the season in good health. The defender picked up a hamstring strain in training ahead of the friendly with Inter Milan.
James and the rest of the Chelsea squad are back in Cobham following a tour of the USA, where they played five matches. They won against Club America, drew against Wrexham and lost to Manchester City, Real Madrid and Celtic. James started all five games, a huge positive for him.
However, the club will be very careful with regards to his return following his latest injury. As he's suspended for the first three league games due to a red card at the end of the 2023-24 season, the right-back will have time to rest.
Chelsea intend to have James back by September but will have to navigate their UEFA Europa Conference League playoff without him. They face one of Servette or Braga for a place in the tournament proper over two legs on August 22 and 29.
Reece James to miss Chelsea friendly with Inter Milan
Reece James will be a huge miss for Chelsea when they face Inter Milan in their final pre-season friendly at Stamford Bridge on Sunday (August 11). The Englishman has picked up a hamstring problem, which will keep him out for a couple of games.
Bar James, Enzo Maresca's side will be at full strength for the first time this summer after the return of Cole Palmer and Marc Cucurella from international duty. Both players are expected to feature against the Italian champions at home.
The Blues will be without Armando Broja and Trevoh Chalobah, though, both of whom have been asked to train with the U-21s while their exits are being worked on. The Inter game will provide the final test of readiness for Maresca's side ahead of their league opener at home to Manchester City a week later.