Gary Cahill names Chelsea ace who’s “one of the best” in Europe after Man United win | OneFootball

Former Blue Gary Cahill has hailed Reece James as “one of the best” full-backs in Europe following Chelsea’s win against Manchester United on Friday night.

The Blues dug deep to ground out a crucial 1-0 victory with James superbly setting up Marc Cucurella for the only goal in the second half.

The win means Chelsea remain on course for a top five finish, but must beat Nottingham Forest on the final day to ensure they return to a competition they’ve previously won twice.

Cahill hails James

James was recalled to the starting line-up and started at right back, after being deployed in midfield on a number of occasions this season.

It’s been another difficult campaign injury wise, but since returning in January he’s remained fit and has made 25 appearances in all competitions, a significant increase on last season.

James was instrumental in the winning goal. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

The 25-year-old showed his quality on the ball for the goal, and Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Chelsea have never considered selling James despite recent reports.

Cahill, a Champions League winner with the Blues was full of praise for James after the game and labelled him one of the best full-backs in Europe.

“Let’s hope he stays fit because, make no mistake, a fully fit Reece James is one of the best full-backs in Europe,” he told Stadium Astro.

“Sometimes in this formation, because the left-back comes inside, he’s stuck there as a back three. I like to see him when he gets forward because of what we’ve just seen for that goal.

“The quality that he possesses. His delivery from wide areas.”

Cucurella shines again

Whilst James impressed on the right side, Cucurella once again put in another impressive performance and is Chelsea’s top scorer in 2025.

The Spaniard’s redemption at Chelsea is quite the story, and Enzo Maresca revealed why he thinks the 26-year-old has done so well this season.

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Chelsea do lack an alternative to Cucurella, and could hand Ishe Samuels-Smith a chance, although they’ve been linked with Ajax star Jorrel Hato.

Hato can play at both left back and centre back, whilst the 19-year-old also fits Chelsea’s recruitment model, but they need to act fast with Liverpool reportedly interested.