Chelsea captain Reece James admitted he was "very frustrated" to learn he was not in the starting line-up for the UEFA Europa League final against Real Betis, but the right-back was instrumental in his side's comeback win after coming on as a second-half substitute.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca chose to start Marlo Gusteau in the final in Wroclaw, Poland, but the latter's performance in the first half was terrible. At halftime, Maresca decisively replaced James and immediately activated the right side of the attack and defense.

James' appearance not only stabilized the defense, but also helped the offensive rhythm. In the second half, Cole Palmer made two assists to help Enzo Fernandez and Nicola Jackson score goals to overtake the score. Then Sancho and Caicedo added icing on the cake. In the end, the Blues defeated Betis 4-1, won the first European Cup trophy in team history, and completed the grand slam of the three major European cups.

After the game, James said in an interview: "Of course, it is heartbreaking news to know that I didn't start in such an important game as the finals. I hope to play in every game, but that is the decision of the head coach."

"Once he made the decision, I just had to accept it and be ready for the opportunity. Fortunately, I got the chance to play in the second half and did my best to help the team complete the task."

With the successful conclusion of the UEFA Europa League, Chelsea will soon start a new round of preparations for the Club World Cup, which will open in mid-June. As the champion of the UEFA Europa League, the Blues will represent Europe and make a breakthrough in the world. For Chelsea, which has just experienced a season of reconstruction, this trophy is undoubtedly an important starting point for its revival.