Reece James offers Mauricio Pochettino verdict as Chelsea stars spotted at Barcelona Grand Prix

Reece James offers Mauricio Pochettino verdict as Chelsea stars spotted at Barcelona Grand Prix

Chelsea defender Reece James has offered his views on Mauricio Pochettino’s appointment ahead of the 2023/24 campaign. The England international has been spotted in Barcelona attending the Formula 1 Grand Prix, along with team-mates Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell.

James is currently suffering with a hamstring injury and missed the end of the Blues’ dismal Premier League campaign. The 23-year-old should be fit for pre-season training with Pochettino keen on getting his team prepared for his debut season in charge.

James suffered with injury issues throughout the 2022/23 season and missed out on a place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the World Cup last year. Despite only making 24 appearances last term, James’ impact on the squad was clear to see and his absence came as a huge blow to Chelsea.

The Blues defender has now spoken about Pochettino’s arrival at Stamford Bridge in a short interview with Sky Sports whilst enjoying the build-up to the Barcelona Grand Prix. James told Sky Sports: “It’s been a tough year.

“We’ve had lots of injuries and didn’t finish in the best position [in the Premier League]. Hopefully next year is better.”

When asked about Pochettino’s arrival at Chelsea, James replied: “Everyone has been saying he’s a great manager and hopefully next season we find our feet early. Hopefully we’re a good, strong side.”

Chelsea are already making moves in the transfer market and are expected to push for a move to sign Moises Caicedo from Brighton in the coming weeks, football.london understands. There are set to be a few departures from the club this summer too, with Ruben Loftus-Cheek close to signing for AC Milan, a source has told football.london, while Manchester City are trying to bring Mateo Kovacic to the Etihad Stadium, with Mason Mount also looking increasingly likely to leave the club.

Former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich hit with Fordstam threat after takeover

Mason Mount and Declan Rice agree on Man Utd transfer incentive as Chelsea brace for double blow

Real Madrid drop bombshell Eden Hazard statement as Chelsea given dream summer transfer hope

Todd Boehly told to sign the ‘next Zlatan Ibrahimovic’ in sensational Chelsea summer transfer

Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: ‘Done deal’, Manuel Ugarte swoop, Nkunku message, Hazard twist