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Moises Caicedo praises a Chelsea player he sees as more talented than Cole Palmer

Originally posted on HITC | By Jack Drury | Last updated Nov 8, 2025 1:50 PM ET

There is a case to be made among Chelsea supporters that the club’s top performer right now is either Moises Caicedo or Cole Palmer.

With Palmer sidelined through injury, Caicedo has stepped up, bringing goals to a game already built on his work rate and energy.

Jason Cundy has gone as far as saying the Ecuadorian midfielder now holds more value to this Chelsea side than the Englishman, even considering how little the Blues are producing in front of goal without the No. 10.

However, recently Caicedo added another name to that debate, one academy product who, for the 24-year-old, is the best player he has partnered with.

Moises Caicedo says Reece James is the best player he has played with

Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images

After a long spell on the sidelines, Reece James has managed to stay fit for almost a year now, and Enzo Maresca’s careful approach to his return is starting to pay off for Chelsea.

Caicedo knows just how valuable the English full-back is, telling La Premier that the defender is the best player he has ever shared a pitch with, despite playing alongside players such as Palmer, Enzo Fernandez, and Marc Cucurella.

Working his way back to full fitness, James has sometimes partnered Caicedo in midfield. He is now once again starting to influence the team in attacking positions.

@lapremierleague Moisés Caicedo elige a su jugador definitivo #premierleague #messi #ecuador ♬ sonido original – La Premier

James making an impact on and off the pitch

James’ presence goes beyond just playing. As captain, he provides a sense of stability for a young squad still trying to find its footing. The regular influx of new signings has only made that leadership role more important.

The start Estevao has made also speaks well of James’ influence. The Brazilian praised the captain for helping him adapt quickly, and his strong start shows how valuable that support has been.

Coming through Chelsea’s academy to become a mainstay in the first team highlights just how talented he is. And if he can stay fit, it will go a long way towards helping Chelsea reach their targets this season.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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