Top 10 Chelsea Women players of the Emma Hayes era

4. Millie Bright

Defined by leadership, consistency, and stability in the backline, Millie Bright has grown into one of the world’s best defenders throughout her time in blue. After coming to west London in 2015 from Paul Green’s old club, Doncaster Belles, Bright earned the Players’ Player of the Season in her first year. The English international went on to start every league game she played in except one from 2016 to now.

Her calmness, physicality, experience, and leadership in the center of the defense have been a staple of the club for so many of Hayes’ years in the English capital. She has led the Blues in minutes played for three straight seasons, consistently stepping foot onto the pitch with the mission of keeping the opposition out of the back of the net.

The Blues have allowed the fewest number of goals in league play in three campaigns since Bright arrived in December 2014. Her rise at CFC has helped her make a name for herself on the international stage.

Bright was a part of the 20-player list of nominees in consideration for the 2022 Ballon d’Or following her Euros triumph, and domestic double with the Blues. With her contract now extended until 2025, Bright is going to continue her run of excellence with Chelsea Women for years to come. Her contributions since her arrival, and the dominant stage of her career she is hitting right now make it an easy call to put Bright in the top five.