The Blues won the WSL for a fifth consecutive season last campaign under the departing Emma Hayes and Bompastor has big shoes to fill after arriving from Lyon for a new era in the women’s game. The Chelsea squad has also seen several changes, with England international Lucy Bronze the pick of the new signings.

First official Chelsea Women match under new manager Sonia Bompastor, after a very promising preseason with three wins in three clashes. Following up an act as successful as Emma Hayes’ 12-year spell at Chelsea won’t be easy, but Bompastor will be willing to show she’s the person for such a challenge.

The dawn of a new WSL era begins as Chelsea open their title defence against a revitalised Aston Villa, both led by fresh minds eager to impress.