Chelsea manager Emma Hayes admits that her remarks concerning the dynamics of player relationships were a disappointment to herself.
During a news conference on Thursday, she expressed that the dynamics between players and coaches, as well as among players themselves, are “inappropriate” and pose challenges for coaches to manage effectively.
Following Chelsea’s victory in the Women’s Super League against Arsenal on Friday, Hayes expressed regret over her earlier remarks.
“I let myself down yesterday,” she said.
“I didn’t think it was right for me to use the term inappropriate for the players,” added Hayes.
Leicester City manager Willie Kirk is under investigation by the club following an accusation regarding a potential player-coach relationship.
A complaint has been filed with the club regarding an alleged ongoing relationship between Kirk and a player. BBC Sport has sought comment from Kirk regarding the accusation.
In response to Hayes’ remarks, Chelsea defender Jess Carter endorsed a post on X, stating that it was “absurd” to involve player-to-player relationships in the discussion.
England’s international Carter is romantically involved with Chelsea teammate Ann-Katrin Berger, while Chelsea striker Sam Kerr is engaged to West Ham’s American midfielder Kristie Mewis.
“Jess and I have had a conversation, as I have with other players within the team,” said Hayes on Friday.
“I don’t take those things back but I have zero criticism of any player in my dressing room for anything. Their professionalism, for what they’ve given to the club regardless of their status, regardless of who they’re in a relationship with.
“I’ve been unbelievably supportive of all of the players. I’ve been a champion for equality and for equity.
“As I keep saying to our players all the time, even if we have disagreements in life, we mustn’t play them out publicly.”