Natasha Dowie, a former Liverpool player and current ambassador, recently shared her excitement about Sonia Bompastor’s appointment as the new manager of Chelsea. Bompastor, who previously had a successful stint at Lyon, winning a Champions League title, is now set to lead Chelsea in the Women’s Super League (WSL). Dowie sees this appointment as a clear indication of the growing global appeal of the WSL, with top players and managers now choosing to come to England.
Having won multiple WSL titles under Emma Hayes, Chelsea now faces the challenge of maintaining their dominance with Bompastor at the helm. Dowie believes that Bompastor’s experience at Lyon, where she achieved great success, could be instrumental in Chelsea’s quest for their first Champions League title. Despite their consistent league success, Chelsea has fallen short in the Champions League, and Bompastor’s arrival could change that.
Dowie is particularly looking forward to the return of Sam Kerr, Chelsea’s star striker, who suffered an ACL injury earlier this year. Kerr’s goal-scoring record and impact on the team have been significant, and Dowie believes that her return will be a major boost for Chelsea. Kerr’s presence on the field not only adds goals but also excitement and charisma to the game, making her a key player to watch.
In addition to discussing Chelsea’s prospects, Dowie shared her thoughts on Manchester United’s upcoming WSL campaign. Despite a less successful season last year, Dowie predicts that United will bounce back and be competitive this year. With players like Mary Earps departing, United will need to regroup and push for a higher finish in the league. Dowie sees them as a potential surprise package in the upcoming season, capable of challenging the top teams for silverware.
Overall, Dowie’s insights shed light on the evolving landscape of women’s football in England, with top managers and players making their mark in the WSL. As the league continues to grow in stature and popularity, the competition is set to become even more intense, making for an exciting season ahead for fans and players alike.