Thomas Tuchel has voiced some skepticism regarding Enzo Maresca’s strategy to position Reece James in the heart of the midfield at Chelsea. Tuchel argues that James, an English international, thrives better when playing as a wing-back.
James has had a rough few years, dealing with injuries, but now he’s back to full strength. He was a key player when Tuchel led Chelsea to their Champions League victory, playing mainly as a right wing-back, a role where he truly excelled both defensively and offensively.
Tuchel thinks James’ best attributes shine on the flanks. “I firmly believe his skills are better suited for the full-back or wing-back roles,” Tuchel explained. “We have enough players who specialize in central midfield.”
However, Maresca sees James in a different light. Since taking the helm at Chelsea last summer, the Italian manager has stuck to his belief that James has what it takes—technically and tactically—to excel in the midfield. Maresca even sent James a video clip demonstrating his abilities in that position before they officially met.
“I’ve always seen Reece as a potential midfielder, from the very start,” Maresca insisted. “I shared a clip with him of a past performance in midfield even before I met him. During his time in Copenhagen, he managed well in that position without the severe physical toll. Now it’s on him to prove he can make it work.”
While Maresca is all for the change, Tuchel remains doubtful. He points out James’ previous injury struggles and questions if James can handle what’s physically required of a central midfielder. “Reece has to demonstrate that he can manage this new challenge. While history and recent stats suggest it’s possible, the onus is on him to prove it,” Tuchel commented.
Meanwhile, Gareth Southgate, England’s manager, has shown confidence in James by including him in the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia. James’ return to fitness is seen as a big advantage for the national team ahead of these key matches.
As James gears up to tackle a different role under Maresca, the debate about his ideal position continues to swirl. Whether he’ll successfully adapt to midfield or revert to his familiar wing-back position, it remains an intriguing question. All eyes will be on the Chelsea captain as he sets out to silence the critics.
