Sonia Bompastor unfazed by pressure of succeeding Emma Hayes at Chelsea
- New Chelsea manager Sonia Bampastor speaks to the media for the first time
- French coach admitted she isn't fazed by succeeding Emma Hayes at the club
- Further transfer business before the summer deadline hasn't been ruled out
New Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor addressed the media in a press conference for the first time on Wednesday, insisting she isn't fazed by the pressure of succeeding Emma Hayes.
The former Lyon boss assumed control last month as she began life in her new role at Chelsea. The Blues have won the last five WSL titles under Hayes, so the pressure to maintain such levels of consistency is extremely high, but it's something the 44-year-old wants to embrace.
"I've settled in really well and I'm excited to be here in England and in London," she said.
"I was really busy with the relocation, but now I'm here and I’m happy to be here. I can't wait to get started with the games and competitions.
"I'm used to [feeling pressure], from being a former player of Lyon and becoming a manager. Emma did a really great job, and I want to build on her legacy.
"I feel lucky to have this opportunity to come in after Emma. I want to show who I am as a manager, but also as a person. The pressure is something I really like because it makes me better.
"I will try my best to work very hard with the girls, and make sure I support them in the best way. I already told everyone we are here to win every single title and every single game."
It's been a busy summer already for Chelsea with a handful of significant incomings. England star Lucy Bronze joined the club on a free transfer from Champions League winners Barcelona, while Oriane Jean-Francois and Sandy Baltimore have arrived from Paris Saint-Germain.
20-year-old midfielder Julia Bartel is another new arrival from Barcelona. Despite the impressive business carried out already this summer, Bompastor didn't rule out further signings before the transfer deadline hits next month.
"We've had some new players [come in], which is good," the manager added. "I think it's a new era and a fresh start for everyone, with new faces in the staff, and in the squad.
"At the moment, I'm quite happy with my squad, but we're still looking in the transfer window if something can happen. But at the moment, Chelsea already has a lot of strengths."
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