Enzo Maresca Explains Why Reece James Was Benched in Chelsea’s 5-1 Win Over West Ham
Enzo Maresca explains his decision to bench Reece James in Chelsea’s 5-1 victory over West Ham, while Wesley Fofana makes a long-awaited return from injury.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has explained the decision to leave captain Reece James out of the starting line-up in Friday night’s emphatic 5-1 victory over West Ham at the London Stadium.
The Blues bounced back in style after going behind early and also losing Cole Palmer to injury in the warm-up. Goals from Joao Pedro, Pedro Neto, Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, and Trevoh Chalobah gave Chelsea a convincing win, keeping their unbeaten start under Maresca intact.
Why James Didn’t Start
James’ absence from the initial line-up raised eyebrows among Chelsea fans, given the right-back had featured in the opening game of the season. Maresca, however, explained that his decision was about long-term management rather than form or fitness concerns.
“Reece is one of our best players, I would like to start every game with him but we have more players,” Maresca told BBC Sport, “We have two good full-backs and will use both.”
The Chelsea boss opted to start with Malo Gusto at right-back, a player who impressed again and continues to show why the club invested in him as James’ understudy. James did eventually come on in the second half, offering fresh energy and experience to help close out the game.
Carefully Managing Fitness
Since returning from injury in January, James has enjoyed his longest run without a setback in years — a significant step considering his frustrating history with muscle problems. At just 25 years old, James is entering his peak years, and Chelsea know keeping him fit is key if they are to mount a serious challenge this season.
Maresca’s careful approach has so far worked, and the Italian is determined not to overuse his captain. With a packed schedule across the Premier League, domestic cups, and European competition, rotation will be essential.
For James himself, staying injury-free may prove more valuable than playing every single game. Chelsea’s supporters will remember how crucial his absence was in recent seasons when their defence often looked shaky without him.
Wesley Fofana’s Return Another Boost
The win also marked the return of Wesley Fofana, who came off the bench for his first appearance in months. Like James, Fofana has been plagued by serious injuries since his arrival at Stamford Bridge, playing fewer than 50 games across three seasons.
When fit, the 23-year-old is arguably Chelsea’s best defender. His pace, physical presence, and composure on the ball give the Blues an extra dimension in defence. With Levi Colwill sidelined, Fofana’s return couldn’t come at a better time.
Maresca is expected to manage Fofana’s minutes in the same way he has with James, gradually easing him into the team to reduce the risk of setbacks. Chelsea will need him available for the majority of the campaign if they are to improve on last season’s struggles.
Friday’s win was another sign of Chelsea’s progress under Maresca. Despite setbacks — Palmer’s late withdrawal and conceding first — the team showed maturity and confidence in their comeback. Goals from midfielders Fernandez and Caicedo highlighted Chelsea’s improved threat from different areas of the pitch, while Chalobah’s late strike was a reward for his persistence at the club amid speculation over his future.
