There has always been comparison between César Azpilicueta and Reece James, especially when both are fully fit. Both players played under Thomas Tuchel, particularly in the 2021 Champions League final against Manchester City F.C. on 29 May 2021.
In that match, James played at right back while Azpilicueta operated as a right-sided centre-back alongside Thiago Silva and Antonio Rüdiger. Both were highly impactful on that historic night.
Looking at Azpilicueta, he was the definition of reliability. He played for Chelsea F.C. from 2012 to 2023, making over 500 appearances. During his time at Stamford Bridge, he won every major trophy available, including the Premier League, Champions League and Europa League. He later left for Atlético de Madrid in the summer of 2023.
Softfootball gathered, Signed from Marseille for around £7 million in August 2012, Azpilicueta became one of Chelsea’s best value signings ever. He was not just consistent in performance, he was consistent in availability. Injuries were rarely an issue. In tight and difficult matches, managers could rely on him.
He also showed leadership, serving as permanent club captain from 2019 to 2023 after previously acting as vice-captain. When Chelsea attacked, he contributed. When defending, he delivered discipline and structure. Under managers like José Mourinho, he even played as a left-back and adapted without complaints.
Now looking at Reece James, the conversation changes. When fully fit, James is not just a footballer, he is a complete modern right-back. Defensively strong, physically dominant, technically sharp. His ability to chest the ball, control under pressure, cross, shoot and even score important goals makes him special. From free-kicks to long-range strikes, he delivers.
Tactically, James offers more positional flexibility in advanced roles. He can step into midfield, operate as a wing-back, or even fill in centrally when needed. In terms of balance between defence and attack, many see him as one of the most complete right-backs in the world when fit.
While James may offer a higher technical ceiling, his availability has often been an issue due to injuries. Azpilicueta’s biggest strength was durability. James’ biggest challenge has been staying consistently fit for long stretches, especially during important periods of the season.
So the comparison becomes clear; Azpilicueta represents leadership, consistency, tactical discipline and reliability.
Reece James represents explosiveness, technical excellence and modern all-round ability.
Both are impactful in their own way. But while James may be the more naturally gifted and balanced all-round player, Azpilicueta’s availability and long-term consistency gave Chelsea stability for over a decade.