Chelsea clinch fourth straight WSL title after Emma Hayes’ ‘hardest year’

Chelsea clinched their fourth Women’s Super League title in a row after they gained 3-0 towards Reading on Saturday, with head coach Emma Hayes saying this season was the “hardest year” of her profession.

The title race went to the final weekend of the season following Manchester United’s late win over native rivals Manchester City final weekend. Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Arsenal earlier within the day final Sunday, meant Emma Hayes’ aspect held a two-point benefit heading into the ultimate weekend of the season.

– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, extra (U.S.)

It sees Chelsea full the double — their fifth underneath Hayes — after they gained the Women’s FA Cup on May 14 with a 1-0 win over United. It continues their outstanding dominance of English soccer with Emma Hayes’ aspect successful their thirteenth main trophy since Hayes took cost in 2012.

“This has definitely been the hardest year for me and I feel relived it’s over for lots of reasons,” Hayes advised a postmatch information convention. “I feel sad because winning the league and relegating a friend, doesn’t feel good in my soul and who I am.”

Hayes, who has been in cost at Chelsea since 2012, underwent an emergency operation for endometriosis in October.

It has been a turbulent marketing campaign for Chelsea’s enjoying employees, too, with accidents to key personnel at numerous levels.

Pernille Harder was out from November via to May, whereas Fran Kirby has been out since February. Millie Bright joined her England teammate on the sidelines after she picked up a knee damage in March. Katerina Svitkova has been out since February, whereas Kedeisha Buchanan picked up an damage in April.

Despite the host of absentees, Chelsea managed to take care of a title problem whereas additionally battling for the FA Cup and Champions League. They fell on the semifinal stage of the European competitors towards Barcelona, dropping 2-1 over two legs, however had been extensively praised for valiant performances throughout each legs.

Sam Kerr has starred for Chelsea and was topped Football Writers’ Player of the Year in May in recognition of her 10 objectives and match-winning performances. It was additionally Lauren James’ breakout season as her membership type noticed her set up herself as an England common.

Information from ESPN’s Sophie Lawson contributed to this report.