In the aftermath of the disappointing loss, James reportedly expressed his fury in the dressing room, stating that he would “rather be stuck on the bench all season than play even a single minute” alongside one of his teammates. His words, directed at a fellow Chelsea player, have intensified the growing tension within the squad.
According to reports from sources close to the team, James blamed this particular teammate for being the “source of the disaster” that led to Sunderland’s late winner — a result that has plunged manager Enzo Maresca into the most difficult moment of his tenure so far.
The defeat not only ended Chelsea’s recent momentum but also exposed deep frustrations inside the dressing room, where several senior players are said to be questioning both tactical decisions and individual performances.
As speculation mounts over the identity of the player James was referring to, fans have taken to social media to voice their opinions — with some defending the captain’s passion and others urging unity during what has quickly become a turbulent period for the club.
Maresca now faces the challenge of repairing morale and restoring discipline as Chelsea look to bounce back from a result that has once again put them under the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
