New Managers Make Their Mark in WSL Debuts: Chelsea Wins, Aston Villa Impresses
Two new managers made their Women’s Super League debuts on Friday, with Chelsea’s Sonia Bompastor celebrating a victorious start, while Aston Villa’s Robert de Pauw showcased a strong performance despite the loss.
Bompastor, stepping into the shoes of legendary coach Emma Hayes, guided Chelsea to a 1-0 victory over Aston Villa, a perfect opening for her tenure. The match at Kingsmeadow set the stage for Bompastor, who expressed her delight in starting with a win. “It is always important to start with a win, especially in the first game at Kingsmeadow with the fans at our home,” she noted. “This win will bring some more confidence for the players and the team.”
Chelsea, aiming for their sixth consecutive WSL title, introduced a fresh look to Kingsmeadow, with banners featuring Bompastor’s image replacing those of Hayes. The atmosphere was electric, with fans warmly welcoming their new manager. “It was a really special night, especially with all the flags. I just saw my face on them! It was lovely,” Bompastor remarked, underlining her commitment to making the fans proud.
Despite the victory, Chelsea faced significant challenges from Villa, who nearly equalized late in the match. Key saves from goalkeeper Hannah Hampton secured the win, demonstrating Chelsea’s resilience and ability to grind out results.
On the other side, de Pauw’s Aston Villa displayed promise and determination, highlighting their potential for a strong season. With a revamped squad and a new tactical approach, Villa kept Chelsea on their toes. Midfielder Missy Bo Kearns, alongside other debutants, left a lasting impression. “If you can force the champions in this way, it says something about the power we have,” de Pauw stated, emphasizing the growth potential within his team.
While Villa left empty-handed, de Pauw encouraged his players to channel their disappointment into motivation for future matches. “I hope the players are disappointed. If you use that disappointment and turn it around, it gives a lot of fire for the next game,” he added, looking ahead to their next challenge.
Both managers made statements in their debuts, setting the stage for an exciting WSL season ahead.