Emma Hayes alluded to the increasing level of competition within the Barclays Women’s Super League and that nothing can be taken for granted as we prepare to face Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
Our first league outing of 2024 takes us back to Stamford Bridge for the visit of Manchester United, who proved stubborn opposition when we came up against them in the WSL and FA Cup last season.
Both teams come into the game off the back of respective victories in the Adobe Women’s FA Cup last weekend, and mark a return to league exploits with what promises to be a blockbuster clash to kick off the second half of the season.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Hayes discussed how teams in the division are continuously strengthening and highlighted the importance of maintaining the right approach to each and every game.
‘I’m someone who really respects everyone and every team we play. I recognise that it doesn’t matter who you are, teams have added to their squads and the result of that is there aren’t any easy games in the league. So my whole approach is to take nothing for granted.
‘Entitlement, for me, is linked with complacency. Sometimes we think to ourselves, we’ve been here before so we know how to do it going forward. I don’t believe that. Maybe it gives you some knowledge, but the reality is we’re playing hungry teams looking to take that title off us.
‘Everybody is vying for it. Do I think it’s different this year? Yes, because we’re top. Usually we’re second at this point. But that doesn’t change our thinking or approach, it just means we’re top at this moment in time. That’s it.’
United arrive in the capital sitting fourth in the league table. When asked about their title credentials, Hayes referred to the talent at their disposal and affirmed her belief that they are among the contenders for the prize.
‘Of course I do. I think they have demonstrated that in the last couple of years. They know how to stay in the race and there are still many turns to happen across the rest of the season.
‘They have more goal threats than they’ve ever had, so I don’t underestimate
Manchester United and for sure they are in the title race given the players they’ve signed and the quality among their ranks.’