The official Chelsea website announced that the first team captain, Reece James, has signed a new contract extending until 2032, confirming his long-term stay with the London club after a long journey with the team that began in his childhood.

According to the official site, James began his initial training with Chelsea at the age of six, progressing through the club's academy to become one of the standout players in the first team. He has played over 200 matches with Chelsea, winning five major titles, including the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup twice, and has captained the team on more than 50 occasions.

James said: "I am extremely happy to renew my contract, Chelsea means a lot to me, and I truly believe we have everything it takes to build on our past successes."

During his career, James had a successful loan spell at Wigan Athletic before becoming a first-team regular, scoring important goals in the League Cup and the UEFA Champions League, and participating in the team's triumphs in the Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup in 2021.

Before the 2023/2024 season, he was appointed as the first team captain, leading Chelsea in over 50 matches, and lifting the UEFA Europa Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup, confirming his significant impact both on and off the field, and he continues to deliver outstanding performances this season.