‘A perfect afternoon’ for Bompastor’s Chelsea as Girma unveiled ahead of victory over Arsenal | OneFootball

Chelsea beat Arsenal in front of a record league crowd at Stamford Bridge to extend their lead at the top of the Women’s Super League to nine points.

The Gunners’ impressive run of form under Renee Slegers was not enough to halt Chelsea in their quest for a sixth successive title, as Guro Reiten slotted home a penalty for the win in the only goal of the tie.

As well as the significance of the victory in the title race, USA defender Naomi Girma was unveiled ahead of kick-off as Chelsea’s new signing, adding to Bompastor’s delight.

“It was a perfect afternoon,” Bompastor said. “In terms of the announcement [of Naomi Girma], but also in terms of result.

“We are really pleased to have Naomi with us. She is a really talented player who will bring a lot of quality to the squad, even though the squad is already talented. It will bring more options for me being able to play more systems. It is great news for all the Chelsea fans.

“Naomi is a defender who is really comfortable with the ball. In possession she will bring a lot of confidence to the team – she is able to have a big impact because she is comfortable passing the ball, kicking short and long, and driving the ball. Out of possession, she is really smart, has a lot of speed and is able to play high up the pitch. She will bring a big impact to our team.”

Bompastor added that Girma will not be ready to play next weekend’s league match against Aston Villa, but they will continue to assess her so she is ready as soon as possible.

Chelsea are unbeaten since Bompastor joined in the summer following Emma Hayes’ departure, and she has led them to victory in all but one of their WSL matches, a draw against Leicester in December.

As well as being in the driving seat in the WSL, the Blues remain in the Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup, but Bompastor insisted the league is far from wrapped up.

“The psychological element [of this points gap] is huge,” she added. “But there are a lot of games to be played. The Champions League is coming in March and it will not be easy for sure.

“If we keep the right mentality and all our players available, we are in a good position but you never know what can happen in football.

“[In the post-match huddle], I gave my team two messages – the first one I will keep for my players and staff. The second one is that I gave them two days off!”