Chelsea boss Emma Hayes has addressed the claims suggesting there are “problems” between her and goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger.
Berger has been Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper for a long time, but this season has seen significant competition for her spot. England’s Hannah Hampton has joined a goalkeeper group that also includes Sweden’s Zecira Musovic.
Consequently, Berger has only featured in seven matches for her club this season, although she has also been sidelined due to injury.
Ann-Katrin Berger (Via ChelseaFC/Twitter)
Despite limited game time, Berger has been called up for both of Germany’s squads in 2024. Addressing her situation on Wednesday, national team boss Horst Hrubesch said: “Ann-Katrin Berger is a very experienced player who has proven herself for many years.
In my eyes she is the type that’s very valuable for the team. At the moment she’s playing in England and – as far as I can tell – has a few problems with her coach over there. But I know her qualities.
That’s why it was important for me to have two experienced keepers in the position, plus a young one from Frankfurt. With those three, we’re very well off.”
Emma Hayes (Via Chelsea/Twitter)
When these comments were brought to Hayes’ attention on Wednesday night, after Chelsea’s Champions League match with Ajax, she said: “Ann had a concussion. She was out two weeks and has only been back for two sessions, so I don’t know where those comments have come from.”
Berger was part of the squad and on the bench for the Blues’ 1-1 draw against the Dutch side, but it was Musovic who started in goal, with Hampton rested.
Berger will join the Germany squad next week ahead of qualifiers for the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro. However, before that, Chelsea faces Arsenal in the Continental Cup final on Sunday, competing for the first piece of silverware in the English season.
