With Cesar Azpilicueta leaving the club in the summer, Chelsea handed the first team"s captaincy to Reece James. The decision took many by surprise, since the squad has more experienced players, including veteran center-back Thiago Silva. However, it looks like the Brazilian defender has been a true mentor for the right-back.
“The captaincy has been great," James told the club"s official website. “But it was difficult when I wasn’t fit because it is hard to affect things as much when I’m not with the group all the time. Thiago [Silva] probably helps me the most whenever I’m unsure, or I feel like I need advice on something."
James also seized the opportunity to poke fun at Silva, saying he “is nearly old enough to be my dad!," but jokes aside, the 23-year-old explained that"s exactly the reason he relies on Silva to grow as a leader. “So he is the person I go to. It’s not for me to say what sort of captain I am, but I’ve enjoyed it so far. It’s an honour."
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Silva"s future up in the air
Thiago Silva is enjoying a great start to the season with the Blues, playing every minute of Premier League action so far. But one of the biggest storylines around him has to do with his future, as the defender is in the final year of his contract at Stamford Bridge.
There are rumors of a return to Fluminense, but the center-back made it clear he hasn"t decided anything yet. Regardless of what he does next year, the Brazilian got into Chelsea"s hearts forever by helping the club win multiple titles, including the UEFA Champions League trophy in his first season in London in 2021.
Samba Gold 2023: Open voting!
Voting for the Samba Gold Award 2023 is now open. Choose your favorite in the men’s, women’s and under-20 categories!
