22/06/2026 BBC Sport reported that James suffered a hamstring injury near the end of the 2025-26 season, leaving him out for about four weeks and causing him to miss England matches against Japan and Uruguay. He recovered in time for Chelsea and secured his place in Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad, ending the season with 39 appearances for the club.
06/10/2025 James withdrew from the England squad ahead of matches against Wales and Latvia. Chelsea confirmed that the club captain had been withdrawn despite featuring regularly for the Blues earlier in the season, and he was replaced in the squad by Nico O'Reilly.
30/04/2025 Reece James was discussed in coverage of Chelsea's season as he returned to regular action after a long spell of injuries. Reports noted that he had also been back in the England setup, marking his first international appearances in two years.