Chelsea Manager Wants Better Scheduling for Champions League

Sonia Bompastor, the newly appointed manager of Chelsea Women, has urged for a more considerate approach to fixture scheduling in the Women’s Super League (WSL) for clubs competing in the Champions League. The former Lyon manager, who succeeded Emma Hayes, emphasized the challenges players face with tight schedules, stating that the current arrangement makes it difficult for them to perform optimally. Bompastor noted that in France, the federation would adjust league fixtures to support teams in European competitions, a practice she believes should be adopted in England. Bompastor's concerns come as Chelsea prepares for a demanding October, facing Manchester United before their Champions League opener and Arsenal shortly after. She highlighted the need for collaboration with the Football Association and the new governing body, Women’s Professional Leagues Ltd, to address these scheduling conflicts. The manager's competitive nature was evident as she expressed her desire for the team to excel despite the challenges. Having anticipated her role at Chelsea since Emma Hayes announced her departure, Bompastor has sought guidance from her predecessor. She described Hayes as supportive, providing valuable insights to help her transition smoothly into the managerial position. Bompastor acknowledged the significant impact Hayes had on the club, expressing gratitude for the conversations that have helped her prepare for her new responsibilities. As Chelsea embarks on a new chapter under Bompastor, the call for better scheduling reflects a broader concern for player welfare and competitive integrity in women’s football.