Legendary Chelsea Women’s manager, Emma Hayes is set to depart from the outstanding side as announced by the club last week.
Hayes has served the Blues for 11 years and has undoubtedly contributed to its prominence in the UK Women’s Super League (WSL), coaching some of the world's most exceptional players such as Australia's Sam Kerr and England’s Lauren James.
Since her move was publicised, Hayes has been linked with taking up the head coaching position at the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT), one of the top ranked female national sides in the world. This was after the vacancy left by then-coach Vitalo Andolovski, following the World Cup and America’s unfortunate premature exit from the tournament.
Despite this high-profile change, Hayes has remained reluctant to elaborate on her USA offer. She did, however, explain her reasons for seeking a change outside of the WSL and club football. One of the most prevalent issues she discussed was the lack of support for parents in women’s football.
An exclusive sit down with Emma Hayes. 💙 pic.twitter.com/WHpSRQDYme
— Chelsea FC Women (@ChelseaFCW) November 11, 2023
On Chelsea TV, Hayes previously addressed her thoughts on being a parent. “It is important that I’m a mum. Not many football managers sit up here and talk about that in the same way. My little boy has been extraordinary to allow me to do this, but it’s challenging for him.”
Even more personal was when Hayes revealed the negative relationship her son has with football. “I don’t think [my son] has a healthy relationship with football because he sees the unhealthy aspect of it. So, I think of it like this: He’s five, I’ve got until about the age of 12 to really maximise that. Of course, I plan to keep on working, but I want to make sure I don’t look back on my life and regret that part.”
On her time with the Blues, Hayes fondly remarked: “I’m a custodian of Chelsea and I’ve worn the badge with honour and pride, and I hope I’ve done the fans proud. And I hope I bring trophies to this team this season as I’ve done the last few.”
Just a handful of games left at Stamford Bridge during Emma Hayes’ tenure.
Let’s make them ones to remember, starting on November 18th. 💙— Chelsea FC Women (@ChelseaFCW) November 6, 2023
Even with her decision to leave Chelsea, Hayes remains one of the greatest managers that women’s football has ever seen. Under her leadership, Chelsea has won six FA WSL titles along with a host of other accolades.
