Chelsea secured their fifth consecutive Women’s Super League title with a commanding 6-0 victory over Manchester United on Saturday, marking the end of an era for manager Emma Hayes.
This emphatic win not only cemented their dominance in the league but also provided a fitting farewell for Hayes, who is stepping down after 12 years in charge to become the United States Women’s National Team coach.
The final day of the season set the stage for a thrilling climax to the title race, with Chelsea and Manchester City level on points but Chelsea ahead on goal difference. Chelsea knew they needed a decisive performance to hold onto their slender advantage, and they delivered in spectacular fashion at Old Trafford.
By halftime, they had already established a 4-0 lead, making it clear that the title was heading back to Stamford Bridge. Meanwhile, City’s 2-1 victory over Aston Villa wasn’t enough to bridge the gap, leaving Chelsea to celebrate their success.
Reflecting on the achievement, Hayes remarked, “What a wonderful performance. The hardest thing to do is five in a row because people take their eye off the ball. I can’t say it’s my most enjoyable title.
It’s definitely been the toughest without doubt, for that reason probably the sweetest.”
Hayes’ departure from Chelsea marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the club’s history. Under her leadership, Chelsea has won seven Super League titles, five FA Cups, and two League Cups, establishing themselves as a dominant force in English women’s football.
Hayes’ influence extends beyond the silverware. Her tenure has been pivotal in elevating the profile of women’s football in Britain.
Reflecting on her journey, Hayes said, “Great memories, listening to the fans, the connection with the players. I just haven’t got any more to give, I know that. Everyone said girls can’t play, nor can they fill stadiums, nor can they get paid, nor can they create history.
Not only are we not going away but we are going to fill them every week. Women’s football now is a serious business and that for me is what it’s about.”
The match itself was a showcase of Chelsea’s prowess and determination. They took control from the outset, with Guro Reiten setting the tone by providing an assist for Mayra Ramirez’s header in the second minute.
Just six minutes later, Johanna Kaneryd doubled the lead with a composed finish past United keeper Mary Earps. Over at Villa Park, City’s hopes were briefly lifted by Mary Fowler’s 21st-minute strike, but Chelsea’s relentless attack quickly quashed any chance of an upset.
Ramirez was instrumental in Chelsea’s dominance, setting up Sjoeke Nusken for a tap-in just before halftime and then scoring a stunning goal herself in stoppage time.
Hayes’ team showed no signs of letting up in the second half, with Melanie Leupolz adding a fifth goal early on. Although City managed to score again through Lauren Hemp after a Rachel Daly equalizer, it was too little, too late.
The celebrations at Old Trafford were a testament to Chelsea’s hard work and determination throughout the season.
Fran Kirby, making her final appearance for the club after nine years, capped off the victory with a goal in the 85th minute, further igniting the title celebrations.
As Chelsea basked in their glory, it was clear that Hayes’ legacy would be remembered not just for the trophies but for the impact she has had on the sport. Her departure marks the end of an era, but her contributions will continue to inspire the next generation of players and fans.
The Women’s Super League has grown exponentially under her watch, and the future looks bright for women’s football in Britain and beyond.
