After signing a three-year contract with the Blues, Bernabe will return to her native Spain to continue her development with Sociedad next season, where she spent the previous campaign on loan from parent club Atletico.

Looking ahead to her time at Chelsea, Bernabe said: ‘I am so happy to be here and I’m grateful for the opportunity that Chelsea have given to me. I’m so excited because it’s one of the biggest clubs in the world.’

Manager Emma Hayes commented: ‘Alejandra has a fantastic left foot and it’s very difficult to find players of her ability who can progress the ball up the pitch on the dribble. We know she can become a top left-sided player in the future and we’re excited to watch her develop and grow.’

General manager Paul Green added: ‘We believe Alejandra has the potential to be one of the best attacking full-backs in the world. Her attacking play will be a real asset for the team in the future. 

‘We look forward to seeing her gain more experience with Real Sociedad next season before welcoming her back into the Chelsea family.’

Bernabe is an attacking full-back who is naturally left-footed and a strong carrier of the ball. She is determined and ambitious, possessing an exemplary work ethic and priding herself on being a good team player.

She has played 76 senior games so far in her career, notably winning the Spanish Super Cup in 2021 during her time with Atletico. There have also been appearances on the European stage for Bernabe, who has featured in the UEFA Women’s Champions League for both Atletico and Sociedad.

At international level, Bernabe was part of the Spain U17 squad that won the 2018 European Championships in Lithuania. She achieved another significant milestone when she made her senior debut for her country against Argentina in November last year.

Everyone at Chelsea would like to welcome Alejandra to the club, and extend our best wishes to her for the forthcoming season with Sociedad.