James signs new six-year deal with Chelsea

Chelsea captain Reece James has committed his long-term future to the club, signing a contract that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2032. A lifelong Chelsea supporter, James joined the club’s Academy at just six years old and has become one of the club’s most influential figures

Having progressed through the Cobham Academy, James made his Under-18 debut while still a schoolboy and was a key figure in the team’s Treble-winning season. He signed his first professional contract in March 2017 and quickly made an impact in Chelsea’s youth teams, finishing as Academy Player of the Season and captaining a Youth Cup-winning side.

Confirming the deal in a statement obtained from the Pride of London’s X handle on Friday, Chelsea Sporting Directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart praised James as a leader who embodies the club’s values.

“He knows what it means to wear this badge, and having committed his long-term future to Chelsea, we’re excited to continue this journey with him,” they said.

After an impressive loan spell at Wigan Athletic, where he was named both Player of the Season and Players’ Player, James broke into Chelsea’s first team ahead of the 2019/20 campaign. He scored on his debut in a League Cup win over Grimsby Town and soon became known for scoring in big European matches, including a memorable Champions League goal against Ajax.

Over the past few seasons, James has established himself as a first-team regular and a leader on and off the pitch. He has made over 200 appearances, lifted five major trophies, including the UEFA Champions League in 2021 and two FIFA Club World Cups, and captained the Blues more than 50 times.

Ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, he was named men’s team captain and has since led the team to UEFA Conference League and Club World Cup glory. Speaking about his new deal, James said: “I am over the moon to have extended my contract. Chelsea means so much to me. I have always said I want my peak years to be here, and I truly believe we have everything it takes to build on our previous successes. I’m excited for the future under this ownership, Sporting Directors, Coach, and all the staff, and hopefully we will lift many more trophies together over the coming years.”

At 26, James continues to demonstrate his versatility, quality, and leadership. With two decades already spent at the club, he is set to write the next chapter of his Chelsea story.