There is no exact criteria as to what makes a player a legend, especially when it relates to the club level. Debates about which players do and do not classify in this category can get heated when football fans get going. These discussions are similar to that of end of season awards. However, there are a few traits generally accepted amongst Chelsea fans that automatically make players club legends: longevity and success.
The Blues have numerous players who possess one trait, but not the other. Sam Kerr and Mason Mount have found success and are undoubtedly going to leave one day as club legends, they aren’t currently there though. On the other hand, you have Fran Kirby and Cesar Azpilicueta, both superstars in southwest London without a shadow of doubt. Chelsea had to say goodbye to one of its most seasoned legends on Friday as she prepared for a move to Manchester United.
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Club legend Hannah Blundell leaves Chelsea to join Manchester United.
Hannah Blundell now says goodbye to her home for the last 11 years as she departs in hope of more playing time. Blundell has seen her role shrink over the last few seasons as the Blues have continued to provide Emma Hayes with world class, young talent. Therefore, her move must be seen as one where she views United as greener playing pastures. The 27-year-old leaves Kingsmeadow after an incredibly memorable stint with the Chelsea Women.
During the right back’s 11 years with the club, she made 165 appearances. Blundell helped the Blues bring in a stunning 10 trophies in the process and received a handful of individual honors, as well. She took home the Young Player of the Year award in 2015 (along with Millie Bright as the two shared honors) and was named to both the PFA Women’s Team of the Year (2017/18) and PFA Women’s Super League Team of the Year (2018/19).
Hayes had this to say about Blundell’s time with the club in the team’s official announcement:
"“Hannah is a club legend who started with us at the very beginning as Chelsea Ladies, right through to us moving to Kingsmeadow and winning consecutive WSL titles last season. Hannah has played a big part of our success and we will miss her; however, this is a great opportunity for Hannah and we wish her all the best for the future.”"
Why did Chelsea choose to move on though? Simply put, this is a move that benefitted all involved parties. Blundell will now get more time on the pitch than in previous seasons. The defender played in 13 matches during the last campaign, largely due to injuries in the back line, as her everyday spot was taken by young phenom Niamh Charles.
Man United is also getting a very talented and experienced footballer. Blundell—despite playing at the top level for quite some time—is still only 27. She has a lot left in the tank and will offer guidance to a football club in desperate need of that quality at the moment. The biggest winner here is Chelsea though. The Blues are adding a top tier talent in Lauren James to the mix, who was the staple of the deal between the two clubs. The 19-year-old has taken the FAWSL by storm during her time with Arsenal and Man United. She brings serious skill to an attack that’s already considered to be one of the world’s finest.
It’s sad to see Blundell depart, ultimately, but knowing it’s a positive for everyone associated with the move lessens the sting. The Pride of London wishes Blundell the best in her future endeavors and wants to thank her for her contributions to the club that we all hold so close to our hearts.
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