Chelsea’s Defensive Shape Under Emma Hayes

Emma Hayes’ 2020-2021 WSL Super League campaign is nothing short of remarkable and is a resounding story of hard work and perseverance through a multitude of trials and tribulations. Hayes experienced both success and failure throughout her career which consisted of time spent in the United States in various football positions consisting of club, collegiate and professional sides. Her vast coaching experience has helped her not only develop a high tactical and technical IQ for the game, but also a remarkable ability to connect with players at an in-depth level in order to influence their minds and their hearts.  

Hayes has brought a uniquely wholesome aspect to professional coaching, and often wears her heart on her sleeve when discussing the ins and outs of her own organization.  This “no holds barred” approach has provided a refreshing perspective to coaching as a whole which also helps provide additional praise to how open she is with her players.  Her specified individual player management has aided Chelsea’s high performance output by “meeting players where they are” by providing personalized care, information, and treatment to each player depending on their specific needs.

There have been countless stories told about how she has helped players grow not only on the pitch, but more importantly off. Some players are treated with tough love while others are provided with an arm around the shoulder, Karen Carney, for instance, has been described by Haye as needing “stimulation and detail” in order to remain focused while players like Kerr need little information and just a guide in the right direction to stir performance.

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