It is a measure of the progress Chelsea Women have made under Emma Hayes that, at long last, it does not really matter what she says. Over her 12 trophy-laden years as the Chelsea manager she has championed, critiqued and publicised the women’s game, becoming its unofficial spokesperson. Yet Saturday brings a match that needs no extra billing.
A Champions League semi-final second leg. Against mighty Barcelona. In what is Hayes’s final game at Stamford Bridge. This occasion is deliciously laced with narrative.
The first leg last Saturday raised the stakes in what was already a tantalising match-up. Through an immaculate tactical display, Chelsea handed the Champions League holders their first home defeat since 2019.
Of course that magnificent 1-0 win will count for little
