Emma Hayes’ relentlessness: One week left in the window

Youth is becoming as important as the first team for Hayes, knowing that the only way to sustain success at the top is to invest in some of the most gifted stars in the youth game. Just eight years ago, the Chelsea Women did not possess a major trophy, and now Hayes has made this club five-time WSL champions.

The constant drive to build a winning team and maintain success season after season is something the world of football needs to appreciate while it’s here. She signed Ji So-yun before success at Chelsea was a formality, and stole Pernille Harder for record money from another Champions League contender in the fall of 2020.

Hayes made her presence known by securing a deal for arguably the most clinical striker in the world, Sam Kerr, just two years ago. Hayes never rests in her hunt to take Chelsea to the highest point a European club can go. This transfer window is just another example of that. From adding some creativity, and strength in the midfield and out on the flanks to bringing in a centerback to pair with Millie Bright, the only real problem for Hayes is figuring out the formation and who to start.