Lauren James: The Remarkable Journey from Man Utd to Chelsea that Led to an Extraordinary England Dream
Lauren James, the talented forward for Chelsea and England, fulfills her dream of competing in her first major tournament at the Women's World Cup She shares insights on learning from Lucy Bronze and receiving valuable advice from her brother Reece Excitement builds as the tournament kicks off on July 20, with the Lionesses' first game against Haiti on July 22
Lauren James has fulfilled her dream of playing for the Lionesses at a Women's World Cup, thanks to her transfers to Manchester United and Chelsea. After making a name for herself at Manchester United in 2018, the 21-year-old had a breakout season at Chelsea and is now set to feature in her first major tournament.
James previously played for Arsenal before joining the then-Championship side, where she made her first-team debut for the Gunners in 2017. Nevertheless, according to James herself, what initially seemed like a risky decision to join a new team turned out to be a pivotal moment that shaped her both on and off the field.
"It felt strange initially, considering my youth at the age of 16," she expressed during a Lionesses media day at St George's Park before embarking on the journey to Australia.
"Without taking that leap, my current position would not have been possible. Some might argue that it was a regression as I returned to the Championship, but occasionally it paves the way for progress."
"Maybe I wouldn't be here without that move.
Image:
James spent three years at Man Utd, which she credits with helping her achieve her dream of playing for England at a major tournament
The most challenging aspects were the days off when I had to be away from my friends and family who all reside in London. The distance was significant, and there were times when exhaustion made it even more difficult, as all I wanted was to hop on a train and return home.
However, living alone provided me with the opportunity to mature and take on responsibilities, such as cooking for myself. My go-to dish would often be salmon paired with various rice options.
Three years later, James returned to her London home, signing for Chelsea - where her brother, Reece, also plays.
Image:
The 21-year-old has won four trophies in two seasons at Chelsea
Under Emma Hayes, many anticipated her to immediately make an impact, but her progress was hindered by a string of injuries. However, during the 2022/23 season, she thrived and secured a place in her inaugural major tournament.
"Emma has been incredibly supportive," James praised her club coach. "She has played a pivotal role in helping me regain my true self and find joy in the game once more. I experienced two years of relentless injuries, but she skillfully guided me through them. As a result, I have been able to rediscover my confidence and perform at my best."
In the moment [when she first joined], everyone wondered why Lauren wasn't playing. Although I wanted to be on the pitch, in the long run, it proved beneficial as it allowed me to stay on the pitch throughout this season. Hopefully, this trend will continue.
Image:
James has already won the Women's Finalissima and Arnold Clark Cup with England
Being a part of the England squad is an incredible experience. It has always been my dream to be a member of this team and participate in a major tournament.
I am approaching each day and every moment with an open mind, making sure to savor them and find joy in each one. I am determined not to have any regrets and to fully embrace and appreciate every single day.
"There are skilled players in my vicinity. I have a close bond with Lucy Bronze, so I find it beneficial to continuously learn from her and seek her advice. It primarily revolves around observing how she carries herself during training sessions, matches, and even in the little details of our everyday activities. I struggle to pinpoint exactly what it is that makes her so remarkable."
Image:
James says she has learnt from experienced players like Lucy Bronze since joining up with England
Despite her own talent, some still label her as 'Reece James' little sister'. Nevertheless, she remains unfazed by this and confidently states that her brother will support her throughout her journey in Australia and New Zealand. "I do encounter this quite often. However, my aim is to establish my own identity as Lauren James," she expressed.
Due to your consent preferences, you’re not able to view this.
Privacy Options
Currently, men's football holds a significantly larger presence, which is to be expected. There have been instances where I may have recognized someone as "so and so's sister." However, this doesn't really affect me as I am well aware of my own professional journey.
What is the World Cup schedule?
The group stage will kick off on July 20 and extend over a span of two weeks, culminating on August 3. During this time, group victors and second-place finishers will advance to the round of 16, which is scheduled to take place from August 5 to August 8.The quarter-finals are set to take place on August 11 and 12 in Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney. Following that, the first semi-final will be held on August 15 in Auckland, while the second semi-final will occur on August 16 at the Accor Stadium in Sydney. Finally, the grand final will take place at the Accor Stadium on August 20.
A third-place play-off will be played the day before the final on August 19 in Brisbane.
