Emma Hayes Guides Chelsea to Fifth Consecutive Women's Super League Title in Emotional Farewell
ICARO Media Group
In an emotional farewell, Emma Hayes led Chelsea to their fifth successive Women's Super League (WSL) title, marking a historic achievement for the club. The final day of the season saw Chelsea secure a resounding 6-0 victory over Manchester United, edging out Manchester City to claim the crown on goal difference.
After an illustrious 12-year tenure as Chelsea manager, Hayes bid farewell to the club with her seventh WSL title. Reflecting on the challenging season, she described it as the toughest yet, making the triumph all the more gratifying. Speaking to Sky Sports, Hayes expressed her relief that the arduous campaign had come to an end. She acknowledged the difficulty of winning five consecutive titles while also building a team for the future, emphasizing her legacy.
Hayes will soon embark on a new chapter in her career, taking over as the manager of the United States women's team ahead of the Olympic Games in Paris this summer. Alongside her seven league titles, she has also clinched five FA Cups, two League Cups, and a Community Shield during her tenure with Chelsea.
The departing manager's legacy goes beyond the trophies she has won. Hayes navigated through a challenging season, facing the loss of key players to injuries. Amongst them, striker Sam Kerr's absence since January due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury was particularly significant. However, Hayes and her team demonstrated their resilience, finding a way to overcome obstacles and emerge as champions.
Midfielder Erin Cuthbert commended the unwavering support of the Chelsea fans, acknowledging the difficult moments throughout the season. She described the title win as both the hardest and the sweetest, emphasizing the immense joy it brought. In her final appearance for Chelsea, forward Fran Kirby, who is also set to depart this summer, came off the bench to score the team's final goal, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Captain Millie Bright, who has been an integral part of all seven title wins under Hayes, emphasized the importance of not underestimating the team. Despite doubters and critics, she highlighted Chelsea's "monster mentality" and their ability to prove themselves season after season. Bright credited their victory to seizing second chances and delivering a stellar performance on the final day of the season.
Chelsea's triumph in the Women's Super League serves as a testament to both Emma Hayes' exceptional leadership and the team's determination. Their string of consecutive titles is a remarkable achievement that solidifies their status as a force to be reckoned with in women's football.