Sonia Bompastor: maximising chemistry and quality is key to Chelsea’s success
With the Barclays Women’s Super League back underway, Chelsea are determined to continue their unbeaten run under Sonia Bompastor. In her second season with the club, she has her sights set on surpassing last season’s achievement of the domestic treble: the UEFA Women’s Champions League is yet to be achieved.
However, with focus on the WSL, Bompastor spoke to the media about her squad and how she will maximise the quality within it.
Individual spotlights
In recent weeks, Sam Kerr returned to the matchday squad after over a season sidelined with an ACL injury. However, she marked her return with a strike that became her one hundredth goal in Chelsea Blue.
The head coach had nothing but praise for the Australian international. Her hard-working attitude and return to the training ground has impacted the environment at Cobham Way for the better. That being said, her minutes are still being managed: a consistent spot in the starting eleven is not on the horizon at present. Kerr must be protected and fully integrated back into the intensity of the WSL, as Bompastor knows she is a truly talented individual:
“One of the best in the world.”
Continuing to speak on individuals, Bompastor also sung her praises of goalkeeper, Hannah Hampton and her successes both domestically and internationally. With arguably the world’s best between the sticks in her squad, Bompastor spoke on her presence in this Chelsea side. Hampton’s attributes span beyond her own abilities but also benefit her teammates and peers both on and off the pitch.
New signing, Alyssa Thompson also sufficed an honourable mention . Having made her debut against Aston Villa, Bompastor confirmed the American international is settling in well and adapting to a new environment. It is also essential that she is enjoying her time in London and feels part of the Chelsea family, which Bompastor recognises daily:
“Whenever I see her, she is smiling.”
The Chelsea family
Bompastor stressed the importance on this collectiveness and ‘family feel’ within the team. New players coming to Chelsea feel welcome and naturally settle in due to the friendships forming around them, the head coach implied. Feeling fully comfortable around their teammates creates chemistry and relationships on the pitch; these relationships are the key to unlocking the true potential of this group of players.
With the likes of Kerr returning and Thompson making her debut, Bompastor reminded how having this array of talent at her disposal is valuable to the team; there is a mix of experience and youth, which creates a healthy competition between their players.
The level of competition in the women’s game is growing, thus Bompastor will ensure her squad are ready to compete. Featuring in all four competitions, Chelsea know what they need to succeed and believe the collectiveness and chemistry both on and off the pitch could give them the edge over their opponents.