Chelsea part ways with head of women's football Paul Green

Green was a key figure in Chelsea's rise to dominance in the Women's Super League

Feb. 9, 2026 at 2:47pm

Chelsea have parted ways with Paul Green, the head of their women's football operations. Green first joined Chelsea in 2013 as part of Emma Hayes' coaching staff and played a crucial role in the club's evolution into a domestic powerhouse, handling player recruitment and helping to build the squad. He was also involved in appointing Sonia Bompastor as Hayes' successor in 2024. Green's departure comes after Bompastor signed a two-year contract extension, despite Chelsea suffering consecutive league defeats for the first time since 2015.

Why it matters

Paul Green was a central figure in Chelsea's success over the past 13 years, operating behind the scenes as a key architect of the team's dominance in the Women's Super League. His departure signals a significant transition for the club's women's team, coming at a time when they are facing some on-field challenges under new manager Sonia Bompastor.

The details

Green first joined Chelsea in February 2013 as part of Emma Hayes' coaching staff, moving from fellow Women's Super League (WSL) side Doncaster Rovers Belles to become Hayes' assistant manager. As general manager, Green was tasked with player recruitment, helping to build one of English women's football's most impressive squads. Alongside Hayes, Green played an integral role in building a culture of winning and was recognized as the unsung architect to Chelsea's success.

  • Green first joined Chelsea in February 2013.
  • Green's departure comes after Chelsea announced a two-year contract extension for Sonia Bompastor in 2026.

The players

Paul Green

The former head of women's football at Chelsea, who played a crucial role in the club's rise to dominance in the Women's Super League.

Emma Hayes

The Chelsea women's team manager, who worked closely with Paul Green during his time at the club.

Sonia Bompastor

The current Chelsea women's team manager, who was appointed in 2024 with Green's involvement.

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What’s next

The departure of Paul Green is likely to have a significant impact on Chelsea's women's team, and it remains to be seen how the club will navigate this transition and the challenges they are currently facing under Sonia Bompastor's leadership.

The takeaway

Paul Green's departure from Chelsea signals the end of an era for the club's women's team, as he was a central figure in their rise to dominance in the Women's Super League. His role in player recruitment, coaching, and succession planning was crucial, and his exit comes at a time when the team is facing some on-field struggles, raising questions about the club's future direction.