Chelsea’s first half of the season has been nothing short of remarkable, and after a much-needed festive break paired with warm-weather training, the team is gearing up for an action-packed next four months.
Dropping only two points in the Women’s Super League during a draw with Leicester, Chelsea finds itself in the Champions League quarter-finals.
However, the challenge intensifies as they prepare to compete in the FA Cup and League Cup, facing the possibility of up to 25 matches before the season ends in June.
Manager Sonia Bompastor has emphasized the importance of staying focused during this grueling schedule. For players like Lucy Bronze, returning to England from Spain has provided not just a fresh challenge but also a more manageable fixture load.
The festive break, a luxury rarely afforded in Spain, came at just the right time for the squad, allowing them to recharge.
Chelsea’s recent training camp in Portugal marked a return to high-intensity preparations, with the team focusing on maintaining their momentum.
Star striker Sam Kerr, recovering from a long injury spell, joined the camp, signaling a promising boost for the squad. While not yet ready for full training, her return will significantly enhance the team’s attacking options in the coming months.
Despite Kerr’s absence, Chelsea has performed admirably, thanks to a deep and talented squad. Young talents like 17-year-old Lola Brown have stepped up alongside seasoned internationals, providing the depth needed for a packed schedule.
Lucy Bronze reflects on the luxury of having a bench strong enough to start for many other clubs, highlighting the squad’s overall quality.
Adjusting to new manager Sonia Bompastor’s system after Emma Hayes’ departure has been a challenge, but the team has settled well under her leadership.
With her experience managing Lyon during high-pressure European campaigns, Bompastor has brought a calm and tactical approach, keeping the players grounded and focused.
As Chelsea sets its sights on a triumphant season, the squad’s determination and readiness to face a packed calendar are evident. The team’s ambitions remain high, with their refreshed energy promising an exciting second half of the campaign.