Emma Hayes: What is endometriosis and how does it impact women in sport?

Chelsea are set to be without manager Emma Hayes on the sidelines for the foreseeable future. 

The 45-year-old announced she underwent an emergency hysterectomy as a result of her ongoing battle with endometriosis. 

In a statement posted on Twitter, Hayes announced that Denise Reddy would be making on-field decisions, while Paul Green is set to carry out all press obligations. 

“To our fans, you’ve had to listen to me bellowing from the other side of the pitch every week but now I want to hear you even louder because I’ll be sitting at home watching the team on the television until my return,” she said.

“I know you’ll respect that my health comes first and at this time I’ve got to prioritise what I need to do for me.

“I fully expect to make a full recovery and I look forward to seeing you in the foreseeable future.”

Hayes is not the only woman in sport currently battling endometriosis. In fact, conversations about the condition are becoming increasingly common in women’s sport. 

Time to heal. I’m so grateful for all the support and I will be back soon x