Chelsea defender Reece James is facing another setback ahead of the new season due to a fresh hamstring injury.
James reportedly experienced discomfort during training at Cobham, following the team’s return from their pre-season tour of the USA.
He was substituted in the 70th minute of Chelsea’s final pre-season friendly against Real Madrid on Tuesday night, with Wesley Fofana replacing him.
The 24-year-old had a strong pre-season, starting all five of Chelsea’s friendly matches, but he missed their final warm-up game against Inter Milan at Stamford Bridge.
Enzo Maresca's first Premier League game in charge sees the Blues host champions Manchester City, which James is already suspended for following his late red card at the end of last season.
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The Athletic reported that club sources indicated the injury to be minor.
Chelsea are going to take a cautious approach with his recovery, given he is suspended anyway for the first three matches of the season.
Malo Gusto, who had a tremendous breakout 2023/24 season, is set to step in during his absence.
James received a red card against Brighton & Hove Albion in the penultimate match of last season, resulting in a four-game suspension. This suspension puts his participation in Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League play-off matches against Braga or Servette in serious doubt. The first leg is scheduled for August 22, with the second leg on August 29.
Chelsea are said to be eyeing the match against Bournemouth on September 14, following the international break, as a potential return date for James.
However, there are concerns about his recurring hamstring issues. James has had several hamstring injuries in the past, which have significantly limited his playing time. He managed only five Premier League appearances last season after undergoing surgery in December to address a persistent problem in his left leg.
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