Reece James stepped up in his role as Chelsea captain to do post-match media duties after a superb performance against Man City.
The Blues dug deep in the wake of their manager’s departure and got a goal, as James explained:
“We had to accept what went on earlier in the week and put it behind us.
“We know what level we can perform at. We made a slight error for their goal but we grew into the game and knew a a chance would come. Credit to the staff that stepped up; they haven’t been in this role before. To come to City away is difficult. First half they had too much of the ball and second half we had a different plan.”
It was very notable that at full time, James pushed interim manager Calum McFarlane towards the away fans to receive their applause. That’s the kind of leadership we see more and more of.
You can see that moment in the clip embedded here:
Reece James is over there making sure the #CFC fans show their appreciation to Calum McFarlane and his academy assistants pic.twitter.com/yxx7tTG307
— Kieran Gill (@kierangill_DM) January 4, 2026
James says players have no insight on new manager
James insisted that Chelsea didn’t know what would happen with the new coach:
“We are in a difficult moment and have to stand together. We are one. We fought as a team today and I’m proud of the boys. It’s difficult but we have to fight for each other. We dug in and got a point.”
“We know nothing at the moment. What happens behind the scenes is not down to us.”
You can see James speaking in the clip embedded here:
In other news…
Liam Rosenior is in London and ready to sign his new contract, according to Julien Laurens.
Chelsea equalised late through Enzo Fernandez, who squeezed in a late chance after Malo Gusto burst down the right. Chelsea wasted a lot of chances, but they took one which counted.
This Is What A Leadership Means. In This World No One Can Convice Me That James Is Not The One True Captain, If Not Him Who Is He Is The Best Captain. Is Not That You Will Bet Waiting For The Officials To Award A Penalty Before Taking The Responsibility Of A Captain No As A Captain You Should Be Also Be Cable Of Coaching The Team As Well,Encouraging The Players Even If Nonsene Is Played By Them Encourage Them To Try More Better But I Know Some Area You Need To Be Angry But Not Always, James Someone Like That Make Sure All His Teammate Head Down To The Tunned Together I Have Nothing To Saying James As Taken His Responsibilities As A Captain No More Than That. Some Captain That Claims To Be The Best But Not Haven’t Yet Done The Work Of A True Captain James I Appreciate You Good Greak Work You Have Done For Chelsea You Will Be Remembered I Wish I Have Your Phone Number Reece James