Reece James has become one of Chelsea's biggest weapons. The right-back has attributes that make him a valuable full-back, wing-back, centre-back and also midfielder. Under Thomas Tuchel, he improved in every facet of his game, and at 22, he is already one of the best in his position.
In the last year, he ranks in the top four per cent of players for non-penalty goals, total shots, assists, and shot-creating actions. His defensive work is just as good, being in the top seven per cent for attempted passes, pass completion, progressive passes, progressive carries dribbles completed, and progressive passes received. He's in the top 12% for touches.
As a full-back, he has become a masterfully balanced player that offers defensive, attacking and tactical flexibility — his game-changing individual skills and leadership qualities beyond his years.
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Under Tuchel, he perhaps developed more than any player at Chelsea and remained just as consistent as his high standards. Arguably, only Thiago Silva was as impressive in Tuchel's entire reign. It's now down to Graham Potter to get the best out of him and continue his progression as a player.
One of the issues towards the end of Tuchel's time was, in fact, the reliance upon James in the attacking structure. Often play would take on a funnel shape in which James received the ball on the flanks but had little to aim at in the box, instead needing to create something for himself.
It's not uncommon for full-backs to be key creators anymore. Trent Alexander-Arnold's record-breaking assist levels at Liverpool have been part of an aggressive defence-led approach. His flaws, especially notable in a back four without midfield protection this season, have been fully exposed, though they were always there and always evident.
The young English right-back has redefined the way his side play, winning the Champions League in 2019, but the ultra-high press has left Jurgen Klopp's side open and now, even when in a more compact shape, Alexander-Arnold is struggling defensively. This isn't a new issue with him. His defensive metrics are far worse than James', only ranking inside the top 77% of full-backs for interceptions, with pressures, tackles, blocks, clearances, and aerials won all in the worst 10%.
James, however, boasts much more balanced stats. It's a matter that Rio Ferdinand picked up after Alexander-Arnold was caught out against Ajax. "Right-backs are so important now, and he's such a ridiculously gifted footballer, and this is what he gives you on the other end," Ferdinand said.
"There's not many others unless Reece James gives you the output in the forward areas that he gives you. You want the balance in his game to come but listen, this kid is going to be a legend in the game in years to come, but there are areas that need tightening up, and that's part of being a footballer."
James has seemingly mastered finding the balance in a way that Liverpool and Alexander-Arnold haven't. Although his attacking numbers are incredible for a defender, he costs his team at the other end, and it's not the basis of a consistent side.
James, under new manager Graham Potter will have to adapt to new methods. The former Brighton boss has also been innovative with his wingbacks, including using attacking wingers further back and on their opposite side to encourage coming in-field.
James hasn't had much of this in his time at Chelsea, but his solid foundation across the field that led to a Champions League victory, largely limiting Manchester City's dangerous attack for over 90 minutes, has been something that has already given Chelsea success. James is a better player than he was 16 months ago, and Potter will be relishing the chance to use him.
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