Paul Green’s Chelsea exit: Blues coach Sonia Bombastor keeps reason ‘private’

Former Manchester City striker Ellen White told the Football Weekly Women’s podcast that Green was Chelsea’s “heartbeat” behind the scenes.

“It had an impact on recruiting,” she added. “They were always two or three years ahead of everyone, and this took them to another level.

He added: “He played a huge role in building everything Chelsea stands for, so it’s really sad that he’s gone. It will be interesting to see what happens now.”

Green’s departure raised questions about the increased involvement of co-sporting directors Lawrence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, and decision-making regarding the women’s team.

Bombastor signed a contract extension last week, which will keep her at the club until 2030.

In response to a question about whether she was happy with the level of independence she enjoyed at Chelsea, the Frenchwoman said: “I think I am happy with where the club is going and the direction it is taking.”

“My job is to focus on what is happening on the field.

“My job now as a coach is to make sure I make this team as successful as possible, win games with my team and give the players the clarity to perform on the field. That’s the only thing I can control and that’s my main focus.”

Bombastor insisted that “operations are still running”, despite notable disappointments in recent transfer windows.

Following their 5-1 defeat to Manchester City, she raised concerns about their summer appointment, admitting she “wished she was in a better place” afterwards.

The Blues made no signings in January, despite falling behind their WSL rivals, and had multiple offers for Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Jennifer Echegeni rejected on deadline day.

Following recent concerns, a report in The Athletic newspaper, external It was suggested that some players did not follow Bombastor’s training methods.

But she responded: “I know there’s a lot of noise going on around our team outside of the environment. I know we can’t control any of that.”

“But I know my players are with me. We are all focused together on the next game and what is next in the season for us.

“I guarantee they have the confidence and belief that we can achieve great things.”