Chelsea’s Treble Triumph: Sonia Bompastor Responds to Criticism
Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor has defended her side’s achievements after winning a historic domestic treble in 2024/25, arguing that the dominance of her squad is often undervalued by media narratives and rival supporters.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Bompastor said:
“That’s not true. We had to fight a lot last season to achieve the treble. It’s not easy to win at the highest level, and it’s not easy to do that six times in a row with different managers, different players.”
Criticism of Chelsea’s dominance
Chelsea have been the WSL’s benchmark side, winning six consecutive league titles and going 492 days unbeaten in domestic competition. But their success has drawn criticism from some fans who argue that their investment in top players has made the league less competitive.
Concerns about the gap between clubs surfaced when Chelsea broke transfer records — including the signing of US international Naomi Girma for £900,000. By contrast, Arsenal’s £1m move for Canadian teenager Olivia Smith was widely praised as progressive for the league, leading to debate about whether a double standard exists.
Recognition — or lack of it?
Bompastor highlighted that Chelsea’s dominance is not always reflected in individual awards. At the PFA Awards, only two Chelsea players were included in the WSL Team of the Year, despite their unbeaten campaign.
“It means the other teams are probably seen as better because they had more players represented,” Bompastor explained. “I feel sometimes my players have been undervalued.”
Investment shaping the game
Chelsea were one of the first WSL clubs to invest heavily in their women’s team. The signing of Sam Kerr in 2019 — reportedly earning around £400,000 a year — signalled their intent to compete for world-class talent. Off the pitch, the club has expanded its backroom staff, adding performance analysts, sports psychologists, and dedicated medical support to match the standards of their men’s side.
Arsenal have followed a similar path, investing in infrastructure and attracting marquee signings. Both clubs now regularly draw some of the largest crowds in the league, with Arsenal breaking WSL attendance records multiple times at the Emirates.
Attendance debate
Some critics have linked Chelsea’s dominance to a dip in WSL attendances during 2024/25. But league-wide data suggests the drop was more likely due to the absence of a major international tournament that summer. After EURO 2022, WSL crowds increased by over 170% year-on-year. A similar boost is expected following EURO 2025 in Switzerland, particularly for clubs featuring Lionesses stars.
Sustained excellence or lack of variety?
Bompastor accepts that some neutrals may prefer more variety at the top but insists Chelsea’s achievements should be respected.
“Even in the women’s game, people should recognise that a little bit more,” she said. “I was a player before and I know what it takes to achieve that.”
Far from damaging the league, she argues, investment by clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal raises standards, attracts star players, and helps grow fanbases.
“It’s not easy to win at the highest level… my players deserve more recognition.”
Chelsea’s run of success has sparked debate about competitiveness in the WSL. But Sonia Bompastor maintains that sustained excellence should not be diminished, pointing to the hard work, resources, and resilience required to deliver a domestic treble.
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