Sonia Bompastor on Balancing Emma Hayes' Legacy & Her Vision at Chelsea Women

Chelsea Women Manager Sonia Bompastor: Embracing New Challenges

Starting any new job can be a daunting task, especially when stepping into a senior role. In the world of football, this challenge becomes even more pronounced when taking over from a highly successful manager. For Sonia Bompastor, the new Chelsea Women manager, her journey has commenced with a refreshing confidence and an unwavering focus on team ethos.

Able Leadership and Club Values

In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Bompastor expressed her contentment with settling into her new role at Chelsea. "We felt really included since the beginning, and I feel like I'm part of the Chelsea family," she said. Her open and inclusive approach has fostered a positive environment, which is crucial for success in football.

Being part of a club with strong values was paramount for Bompastor when she joined. "When I had my first conversations with Paul Green and other members of staff, I could feel this club was a special club with values," she said, underscoring the importance of a shared vision among the coaching staff and players.

Comparison with Emma Hayes

Bompastor steps into the well-loved shoes of former manager Emma Hayes, who led Chelsea Women to seven WSL titles before departing for the USA. Naturally, comparisons between Bompastor and Hayes abound. "It's normal for people to compare because she had such great success here," Bompastor admitted.

Despite the inevitable comparisons, Bompastor is determined to carve her own path. "I'm not Emma Hayes; I have my own personality and I'm trying to bring my own ideas," she emphasized. This blend of respecting the legacy while adding her own philosophy is key to her approach.

Adapting Tactics

Bompastor's coaching style leans towards possession-based football. "I'm very happy with the way the players are adapting to all these new things. It takes time, but we must achieve results quickly," she noted.

Her observations after Chelsea's 1-0 victory against Aston Villa revealed areas for improvement, specifically stating, "On the offensive side, maybe 50% - there’s still room for improvement." This analytical mindset ensures that the team will strive for continual growth.

Upcoming Challenges: WSL Derby Against Crystal Palace

As Chelsea prepares for their upcoming match against Crystal Palace, Bompastor's focus remains razor-sharp. "We're really excited to play a derby and want to focus on our performance," she declared, highlighting the competitive nature of the WSL.

Given the growth of the Women’s Super League (WSL), Bompastor must navigate the challenges that come with competition in a rapidly evolving league. The success of the Lionesses in Euro 2022, as well as their appearance in the Women's World Cup final, has generated enormous interest in women’s football in England.

The State of Women's Football in France

While the WSL flourishes, Bompastor identifies the need for growth in women's football in France. "The French Federation and clubs have realized the need for a competitive league," she explained, acknowledging the improvements being made. With the French league now officially professional, there are efforts to bolster facilities, infrastructure, and fan engagement.

Bompastor concluded, "It's never too late, even if France is currently far behind England. They are working hard to make improvements, though it will take time.”

Conclusion

As Bompastor embarks on her management journey with Chelsea Women, her emphasis on team values, tactical adaptation, and respect for legacy while forging her own identity will be essential in building a successful chapter for the club. With a positive start, the future looks bright for both Bompastor and Chelsea Women.