Chelsea manager Emma Hayes has been the driving force behind the club’s success since her arrival in 2012, leading them to a fourth consecutive Women’s Super League title and an FA Cup Double this season. When asked to reveal the secrets of their success, Hayes joked “Do you think I’m going to give away the crown jewels?”
The Blues have been able to maintain their dominance in English women’s football despite growing investment and competition from other teams. Former Blues defender Claire Rafferty, who played under Hayes between 2012 and 2016, attributes this to the commitment to small details, such as employing a range of experts in the backroom staff and monitoring training loads. Rafferty also noted that Hayes was not afraid to admit she was not an expert in certain areas and would look to other clubs for inspiration.
Chelsea have consistently competed for every trophy, and have been able to peak when it matters most at the business end of the season. This is perhaps their greatest strength under Hayes, as they are able to go up another gear when other teams are beginning to tire.
To sustain their trophy hunt and fend off challengers, Chelsea have been regularly recruiting players with a fresh desire to win. In 2020, they broke the world transfer record to sign Denmark forward Pernille Harder, and last year they signed five-time Champions League winner Kadeisha Buchanan from Lyon.
This has allowed Hayes to rotate effectively and regularly in four competitions this season, with nobody safe in the team. The players are always looking over their shoulders knowing someone is chasing them, and training is a big platform for this mentality.
It is clear that Chelsea’s success is down to more than just what happens on the pitch. With Hayes’ commitment to detail and her ability to bring in quality players, it is no wonder that they have been able to remain at the top of English women’s football for so long.