Life post Emma Hayes: A new pastor ordained
The Women’s Super League kicks off today with Champions Chelsea hosting Aston Villa. The Blues will have their eyes firmly set on winning their sixth successive league title, but must now do so without Emma Hayes. The manager’s 12-year reign came to an end last season as she took over the USA job. And success seems to run through her veins as she has since won Olympic gold in her new job.
Replacing Hayes is the former Lyon boss Sonia Bonpastor. The former France international comes with pedigree. Twice winning the Champions League with Lyon as a player, she also managed the French side to a European title in the 2021/22 season beating Barcelona 3–1 in Turin. Despite Hayes’ success during her 12 years in charge, she was unable to bring home the elusive Champions League. Therefore, one of Bonpastor’s key objectives will be to push her new side over the line and give them a taste of European success.
Last season
Last season ended in dramatic fashion as a 4–3 defeat to Liverpool saw Emma Hayes concede the title to Man City. Whether it was mind games or not, it did seem as if the title was all but lost, but Chelsea were handed a lifeline as Arsenal scored two late goals to condemn the Cityzens to a defeat. An 8–0 thrashing of now Championship side Bristol City at Kingsmeadow gave Chelsea the impetus to finish the job on the final day of the season as they hammered Marc Skinner’s United side 6–0 to lift the WSL trophy at Old Trafford.
New signings
The most notable signing is Lucy Bronze, who joins on a free transfer and importantly brings Champions League winning experience to this Chelsea side. Chelsea have also added defender Maelys Mpome from Montepelier, and Barcelona academy product Julia Bartel. They have also acquired the services of midfielder Oriane Jean-Francois and forward Sandy Baltimore from Paris Saint-Germain.
Outgoings include Fran Kirby, Jess Carter, Maren Mjelde and Melanie Leupolz
Season objectives
After the departure of such an influential manager, some would expect lower expectations that often come in a transitory period. However, I don’t believe Bonpastor will allow the standards to slip. Chelsea will expect to win it all once again this year. Champions League glory will most definitely be a key priority this season.
They will however know that their rivals have strengthened. Like last season, expect a three horse race with City being their closest challengers.
