The Blues' leader stated that Chelsea makes its comeback into the European elite with full confidence in their ability to compete with the top global sides.
Inexperienced Team Faces Early Test at Bayern's Home
Under Enzo Maresca, the emerging side prepare onto the elite platform after a two-year absence. The initial hurdle is against Bayern Munich on Wednesday evening. But James remains unfazed regarding their youthful roster.
He highlighted July’s Club World Cup as proof that the London club stand as real threats for the European crown.
Past Lessons
"The season is young," remarked the skipper. "There's no question in our potential to challenge with top-tier opponents in Europe and the world. Our approach is one match at a time and evaluate our progress by the conclusion."
James himself is no stranger on the big stage. He reflected on a tough night facing Munich five years ago, when the Bavarians won 7-1 on aggregate during the knockout stage.
"You learn more when you lose," said James. "I played against Bayern in 2020 and it was a humbling experience. Matches like that build character and guide me going into the upcoming match."
Evolving Team
After the departure to the French side, he remains the sole remaining member of the Blues' continental triumphant squad. "The club experienced many transitions," he said. "I don't view it as negative. Last season we qualified among Europe's best and claimed a double. We have progressed."
Surprise Loan
He said he didn't expect at the loan involving the striker to the German champions. The Senegal international can play against his parent club this week.
"I didn’t see it coming," he commented. "I think he desired a change and management agreed. I’m not sure the details, and he's a top professional."
Tactical Insights
Manager Enzo Maresca suggested that the striker might give the opponents with some inside information. "There's possibly a slight advantage since he can explain how we work, our game approach," noted the Chelsea boss. "He was with a full season with us, so he understands our tactics."
Maresca also rejected talk of a fallout with Jackson. "I never had any issue with him, and that hasn't changed," he insisted. "Jackson remains a good person, a dedicated professional, and worked hard with us."
Maresca also expects that the attacker can recover to start after overcoming a fitness concern.
