Enzo Maresca aims dig at Reece James again as he bemoans his ‘lack of leadership’

needs to step up and take on more responsibility, suggesting that a lack of effective leadership has been a major factor in Chelsea’s struggles this season.

Although James was appointed club captain by former boss Mauricio Pochettino in 2023 and kept in the role under Maresca.

The current manager has pointed to a noticeable absence of vocal direction among the squad as a key issue behind their disappointing Premier League run.

Maresca said in a press conference: “You need leaders, 100 per cent. If you don’t have them you need to build a leadership.

“This is why I was trying to complain a little bit about Reece, because I want more from him. And he’s doing more. Reece is doing well.

“We have two or three more players that are making the effort to help the rest. But for sure, when you have a real leader, it’s much better to manage different problems during the season.”

Maresca previously stated that he “expected more” from Reece James earlier in the season, as Chelsea’s campaign has since unraveled.

The Blues appeared to be in the title race up until December, but a poor run of form—just five wins in their last 16 league games—has left them scrambling to secure a European spot.

Chelsea will take on Fulham in their next Premier League fixture on Sunday, followed by a home clash against Everton next Saturday.