Reece James Becomes the Last Link to Chelsea’s Champions League Glory
Ben Chilwell’s transfer to Strasbourg has officially marked the end of an era at Stamford Bridge. His departure means that captain Reece James now stands as the sole survivor of Chelsea’s unforgettable 2021 Champions League-winning squad, a side that etched its name in football history with a famous win over Manchester City.
A Night That Defined Chelsea’s Legacy
May 29, 2021, will forever remain a sacred date for Chelsea fans. On that night in Porto, Kai Havertz’s decisive goal sealed a 1-0 victory against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, handing the Blues their second UEFA Champions League title. It was a triumph built on resilience, unity, and tactical brilliance under Thomas Tuchel.
Every player who took part in that campaign became immortal in the eyes of the supporters. But just four years later, the squad has been scattered across Europe and beyond—Havertz to Arsenal, Mason Mount to Manchester United, Antonio Rüdiger to Real Madrid, Mateo Kovačić to Manchester City. And now, Chilwell’s exit leaves only one player from that legendary night still at Stamford Bridge.
Reece James: The Torchbearer of Chelsea’s Spirit
At just 25, Reece James carries the weight of both history and leadership. Despite enduring injuries and managerial turbulence, his loyalty to Chelsea has never faltered. Now wearing the captain’s armband, James represents far more than just one of the world’s best right-backs—he is the emotional link to the club’s golden past.
For fans, James embodies continuity. His memories from Porto make him a natural leader for the new generation of Chelsea stars who have yet to taste European glory. His presence reminds both teammates and supporters of the high standards that once took the club to the very top of Europe.
Chilwell’s Exit: The End of an Era, The Start of Another
Ben Chilwell’s move to Strasbourg may have surprised some, but it reflects Chelsea’s wider transformation under Enzo Maresca. The club is focused on building a young, hungry squad capable of dominating the Premier League and reclaiming its place among Europe’s elite.
For Chilwell, it is a chance to begin a fresh chapter. For Chelsea, it is a bittersweet farewell to a player who played his part in one of the club’s greatest modern triumphs.
Fans React With Emotion
Chelsea supporters quickly took to social media to share their memories. Clips of Chilwell celebrating alongside James in Porto resurfaced, sparking both nostalgia and sadness. Some lamented the dismantling of the 2021 squad, while others expressed hope that James’ leadership would inspire the next generation.
One fan wrote: “Reece James is not just our captain—he’s our living connection to Porto 2021.”
Looking Forward
As the last survivor of Chelsea’s 2021 Champions League triumph, Reece James carries a symbolic weight like no other. He is both the bridge to past glory and the foundation for future success.
The road back to Europe’s summit won’t be easy, but with James at the heart of the project, Chelsea fans believe the dream is far from over.
For now, James stands as more than just a captain—he is a living reminder of what Chelsea can achieve when everything falls into place.