Lauren James is one of the most gifted attacking players in the women’s game. A powerful, two-footed forward whose close control, balance, and vision make her a constant threat between the lines. Still only 23, she has already been central to Chelsea’s domestic dominance and played a pivotal role in England’s UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 triumph. Last season, she helped Chelsea complete an unbeaten domestic treble, adding to a run of four straight WSL titles since her arrival.
James terrorises defenders with her 1v1 ability, body strength, and change of tempo. Just as happy rolling defenders as she is slipping runners through. She scores all types of goals and thrives on the big occasion. To date, she has collected 13 domestic honours and twice been named WSL Player of the Month.
Despite spells on the sidelines with injury last term, she returned to deliver decisive moments for Chelsea and and England at EURO 2025. It’s that blend of flair, end product, and mentality that makes her one of the most feared forwards in the modern game.
Career snapshot
- Arsenal (2017-28)– 8 app, 1 gls
- Man United (2018-21) – 56 app, 28 gls
- Chelsea (2024- ) – 91 app, 28 gls
- England (2022- ) – 34 app, 9 gls
Honours
- League Cup (2):
- 2017-18 (Arsenal)
- 2024-25 (Chelsea)
- Women’s Championship (1):
- 2018-29 (Man United)
- WSL (4):
- 2021-22 (Chelsea)
- 2022-23 (Chelsea)
- 2023-24 (Chelsea)
- 2024-25 (Chelsea)
- FA Cup (3):
- 2021-22 (Chelsea)
- 2022-23 (Chelsea)
- 2024-25 (Chelsea)
- Arnold Clark Cup (1):
- 2023 (England)
- Womens Finalissima (1):
- 2023 (England)
- UEFA Women’s Euro (1):
- 2025 (England)
She’s a Baller is a regular feature on VERTA. You can find all other editions here