In their only previous Champions League final in 2021, Chelsea suffered a 4-0 defeat to Barcelona. Now, as manager Emma Hayes prepares to depart, she dreams of leading Chelsea to triumph in the Women’s Champions League, describing it as a potential “storybook ending”.
Earlier this month, it was revealed that Hayes, 47, will conclude her tenure with Chelsea at the end of the 2023-24 season. Since becoming manager in 2012, Hayes has guided Chelsea to significant victories, yet the Champions League title has eluded her and the team.
Hayes expressed her desire to achieve this goal, stating, “A storybook ending would be wonderful, though I’ve never been one for fairytales. I’m grounded in reality, but nothing would please me more than securing a victory for this squad.”
Last season, Chelsea’s Champions League journey ended in the semi-finals, ousted by Barcelona, who went on to win the tournament. Their 2023-24 campaign kicks off with an away game against Real Madrid on Wednesday.
Under Hayes’ leadership, Chelsea has claimed six Women’s Super League titles, five FA Cups, and two League Cups, establishing themselves as a powerhouse in English women’s football. In 2021, Hayes led the team to the Champions League final, but they fell to Barcelona.
Millie Bright, England’s defender who joined Chelsea two years after Hayes’ arrival, attributes much of her development to the departing manager. Bright reflected on the news of Hayes’ departure with mixed emotions, saying, “The news hit like a storm. I was initially heartbroken. Having been under Emma’s guidance for nine years, she’s been more than a coach – a mentor, friend, and life coach. Her impact has been instrumental in elevating my game.
“It’s a rarity to thrive under a manager for such an extended period. It’s been an honor to work with her for this duration. We’re thankful and proud of our accomplishments, but our focus is on the full season ahead.”
Real Madrid: A Formidable Challenge for Chelsea
Chelsea’s Champions League campaign begins with a challenging away fixture against Real Madrid. The two teams previously clashed in the 2022-23 group stage, with Chelsea securing a 2-0 victory at Kingsmeadow and a 1-1 draw at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium. Despite their efforts, they didn’t advance past the group stage.
Hayes emphasized the importance of understanding and executing against Madrid’s style of play. “We’ve done our homework on Madrid – we’re familiar with their team and style. It’s one thing to know what to expect, but another to perform accordingly,” she explained. “They are quick, skilled at picking passes, and patient, which means we have to match that patience, especially in an away game. They’re becoming a formidable team.”
Bright, echoing the sentiment of readiness, expressed the significance of the Champions League for Chelsea players. “The Champions League represents everything to us – it’s a symbol of the winning culture at Chelsea. While we don’t yet have this trophy, we approach it one game at a time, ready to meet this challenge,” she stated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Emma Hayes Chelsea
What is Emma Hayes’ goal for her final season with Chelsea?
Emma Hayes aims to lead Chelsea to victory in the Women’s Champions League in her final season as manager, describing it as a potential “storybook ending.”
How has Chelsea performed under Emma Hayes?
Under Emma Hayes’ management since 2012, Chelsea has won six Women’s Super League titles, five FA Cups, and two League Cups, but they have yet to secure a Champions League title.
What was Chelsea’s performance in the previous Champions League?
In the 2021 Champions League final, Chelsea was defeated 4-0 by Barcelona. In the 2022-23 season, they were eliminated in the semi-finals by Barcelona, who eventually won the tournament.
How did Millie Bright react to Emma Hayes’ departure?
Millie Bright, a defender for England and Chelsea, expressed mixed emotions about Emma Hayes’ departure, acknowledging her significant impact as a mentor and coach over nine years.
What are Chelsea’s challenges in the upcoming Champions League season?
Chelsea faces a challenging start in the 2023-24 Champions League season with an away game against Real Madrid. They aim to improve on their previous performances and contend for the title.
More about Emma Hayes Chelsea
- Chelsea FC Official Website
- UEFA Women’s Champions League
- England Women’s Football Team
- Real Madrid Women’s Team
- Women’s Super League Highlights
4 comments
Real Madrid is no walk in the park, Chelsea fans! Our ladies are stronger than ever, can’t wait to see this match. It’s gonna be epic, good luck though, you’ll need it 😉
I still can’t believe that 4-0 loss to Barca in 2021… it was brutal. But this season, we’ve got this! Emma Hayes deserves to go out on a high, fingers crossed for our team #KTBFFH
wow, emma hayes leaving Chelsea? end of an era, she’s been amazing with the team. but hey, Real Madrid next? that’s gonna be tough, but our girls can handle it, Go Chelsea!
Millie Bright’s comments really hit home, shows how much of an impact Emma has had beyond just coaching… really gonna miss her style and leadership. Who’s gonna step up next?