81
Chelsea captain Reece James is facing yet another injury setback that is expected to keep him sidelined until at least the New Year.
The 24-year-old defender, who has struggled with a series of injuries over the past year, has been diagnosed with a hamstring issue following a recent scan, though Chelsea have refrained from providing an exact timeline for his return.
The latest injury is not considered a recurrence of his previous problems, but it continues to add to the 24-year-old’s long list of frustrating setbacks.
James has only played 654 minutes of football since being named Chelsea captain 15 months ago, missing a staggering 55 matches during that period.
While the latest injury isn’t considered a recurrence of previous issues, the club is taking extra steps to ensure James’ mental well-being is supported.
Chelsea has committed to providing him with a tailored rehabilitation program, but more importantly, they want to ease the mental burden on their star defender.
James, who has already missed major events like Euro 2024 due to injury, is being provided with the best possible support to help him recover, both physically and mentally.
In an Instagram post, James expressed gratitude for the support from fans, stating, “Your support and kind messages go further than you could ever imagine. Another challenge ahead accepted. Eventually, I’ll come out on top. Against all odds.”
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca echoed the sentiment, opting not to discuss James’ situation in depth during his recent press conference. “The more we talk, the more pressure we put on him,” Maresca said.
James had recently made his long-awaited return to the pitch in late October, playing four consecutive Premier League matches before the November international break.
However, this latest injury setback has once again left Chelsea without their captain, who was hoping to regain full fitness ahead of a crucial period in the Premier League.
Chelsea, currently sitting third in the table, are entering a critical December stretch, with nine important fixtures ahead as they chase the league leaders, Liverpool.
Real Madrid Adds Another Name to Injury List
In other football news, Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga is also set for a spell on the sidelines after picking up a muscular injury in his left leg during Madrid’s 2-0 Champions League defeat to Liverpool.
The Frenchman, who had only just returned from a knee ligament injury in September, is expected to miss around three weeks of action.
His absence will see him miss La Liga matches against Getafe, Athletic Club, and Girona, as well as a must-win Champions League clash against Atalanta.
Madrid’s injury woes continue to mount, with several key players already sidelined, and their 2-0 defeat to Liverpool leaves them struggling in 24th place in the Champions League group stage, putting their qualification hopes in jeopardy.
