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As Reece James gears up to marshal England’s defence at the upcoming World Cup, the 26-year-old is eager to finally leave his mark on football’s grandest platform after the disappointment of missing out on Qatar 2022. His sister, Lauren James, already has a winner’s medal with the Lionesses, but the Chelsea captain insists he has his own plan for success.

Family of football excellence

The James family has become a symbol of footballing excellence in England, with both Reece and Lauren representing Chelsea and the national team at the top level. Given Lauren’s crucial role in the Lionesses’ triumphs, many wondered if her older brother had sought her guidance on dealing with the pressures of major international tournaments. However, Reece remains firm in his belief in his own experience and approach.

When asked by GQ magazine whether Lauren had offered any advice on winning at the highest level, Reece was candid: “No, I don’t think so. Maybe if I’d never won anything [she would], but I’ve had winning experiences before, I know what it feels like and what it takes.” Although the two don’t exchange tactical notes, his admiration for her achievements is unmistakable. “I always knew her level was to perform on the biggest stage in the biggest games, and I’m not surprised at all. I’m proud to see her playing for Chelsea and representing England,” he said.

Working again with Thomas Tuchel

The appointment of Thomas Tuchel as Gareth Southgate’s replacement has been a major boost for James. Having lifted the UEFA Champions League together at Chelsea, the two share mutual respect and understanding—something Reece believes will be crucial for England’s World Cup ambitions in the United States. The right-back expressed his delight at seeing his former club manager take charge of the national team at such a crucial stage.

“We have a great relationship, so I was happy to be working again with someone who knows me and knows how to get the best out of me,” James explained. Speaking about what makes Tuchel the right man for the role, he added: “I think he’s one of the best managers out there. He’s won at the top level, managed world-class teams, and I trust his style of play and his vision. He brings out the best in individuals and the team.”

Turning pain into motivation

Missing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar due to a knee injury continues to drive James forward. Watching from the sidelines was difficult, but it strengthened his determination to return stronger. Now fully fit and leading Chelsea as captain, he feels ready to play a key role in what could be a memorable summer for England.

“A lot of people doubted me and wrote me off. But that gave me the fire to come back stronger,” James admitted. “I always knew I was good enough and that I’d be healthy again. Since 2022, it’s been on my mind because I missed out on Qatar. My dream is to play in the World Cup, to lift that trophy and help my country. Ever since then, I’ve been focused on doing everything possible to make it happen.”

Focused on the present, building for the future

England’s football history is full of so-called “golden generations” that couldn’t deliver on their potential, but James is keeping his eyes firmly on the present. He recognises the immense talent in the current squad—featuring stars like Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane—but stresses that their motivation is to create their own legacy, not to make up for past disappointments. His ongoing commitment to Chelsea, reinforced by a long-term contract, remains the cornerstone of his career.

“Whenever you wear the England shirt, you just want to represent your country in the best way possible—and that means winning trophies,” James said. Reflecting on how the captaincy has shaped him, he added: “I’m older now, more experienced. Life and football are very different, but being captain has given me a better understanding of where people come from and the cultures they live in. I always try to make everyone feel comfortable because joining Chelsea—one of the biggest clubs in the world—can be daunting. The more comfortable they feel, the better they’ll perform.”