Sonia Bompastor appointed as Chelsea Women's head coach after Emma Hayes' departure
- Sonia Bompastor has been confirmed as the new head coach of Chelsea Women.
- Bompastor succeeds Emma Hayes, who left her role as head coach after 12 years at the club.
- She is the first woman to win the Champions League as both a player and manager.
Sonia Bompastor is the new head coach of Chelsea Women, taking over from Emma Hayes. Hayes led Chelsea to become league champions in her final season, but the team fell short of winning all four trophies. Bompastor, who previously coached Lyon, signed a four-year deal with Chelsea and will start on July 1. She aims to continue the club's success and honor Hayes' legacy. Bompastor's appointment was based on her coaching philosophy and successful track record. She managed Lyon to three league titles and a Champions League win. Chelsea's management believes she will bring a winning mentality to the team. The club also announced a new structure where the women's team will operate independently from the men's team, attracting more investment and resources. Bompastor's experience with Lyon, managing diverse personalities, made her an ideal replacement for Hayes. Chelsea's sporting directors praised her as the right candidate to lead the team forward. The club considered both male and female coaches for the role, but Bompastor's credentials stood out. The new strategic growth plan aims to elevate the women's team and attract more investment into women's football. Chelsea's decision to appoint Bompastor aligns with their goal to enhance the women's team's success. The club values women's football and aims to unlock its long-term potential. Bompastor's achievements as a player and manager, along with her determination to succeed in a new challenge, impressed Chelsea. The team's restructuring and focus on dedicated resources highlight their commitment to women's football growth.