Emma Hayes, the long-serving manager of Chelsea Women’s Football Club, has stepped down after 12 successful years in charge. Her departure comes after leading Chelsea to their fifth consecutive Women’s Super League title and her seventh overall. The team secured the title with an emphatic 6-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford. Throughout her tenure, Hayes has amassed an impressive collection of 14 major honors, including five FA Cups and two League Cups.
In a recent interview, Hayes expressed that she believes it is the right time for her to step away from the role. She mentioned that the demands of the job, particularly in terms of managing and supporting the players on a daily basis, have taken a toll on her. Hayes emphasized her high standards for herself and the challenges of maintaining them.
Hayes also spoke about the importance of player care and well-being, stating that she hopes the club will provide support for the new manager in these areas. She believes in the value of performance psychology and wants to see more focus on the emotional needs of players. Hayes has made suggestions to the sporting directors at Chelsea regarding these matters and is confident that they will be taken into consideration.
Reflecting on her contribution to the game, Hayes shared her desire to create role models for young girls and women in football. She wanted to establish a profession that was previously deemed impossible for women. Hayes acknowledged the lack of visibility and opportunities for female players when she was growing up, but she believes that women’s football is on the verge of a significant breakthrough. With sell-out matches at iconic venues like Old Trafford and Wembley, as well as the success of the England women’s team and increased attendance at Arsenal games, Hayes predicts that women’s football will explode in popularity in the coming years.
Overall, Emma Hayes’ departure from Chelsea Women’s Football Club marks the end of an era. Her achievements as a manager and her dedication to promoting women’s football have left a lasting impact on the sport. As she moves on to take charge of the USA women’s team, Hayes leaves behind a legacy of success and a strong foundation for future growth in women’s football.