‘I’m well again’: Emma Hayes on hidden trauma, ADHD and Chelsea upheaval

Emma Hayes is serene in a small bungalow in Cobham as, amid the uncertainty, one era sweeps into another at Chelsea’s heavily monitored training ground. Two weeks ago, a short walk from here, Thomas Tuchel was sacked by Chelsea’s owners the morning after his 100th game at the club. Hayes had just passed 10 years in charge of Chelsea Women, in a reign made remarkable by five Women’s Super League titles, four FA Cups and two League Cups.

The second half of her career at Chelsea coincided with the arrival of her son, Harry, born only half an hour before Hayes gave birth to his twin brother, Albie, who had died inside her after 28 weeks. Now it feels as if she has been released from four years of hidden trauma.

Hayes, an engagingly open woman, has reflected on her grief and loss while also expressing sympathy for Tuchel. The 45-year-old has spoken about her belief that she has ADHD and remembered the days when her dad told her to “change the face of women’s football”. Hayes has suggested how best to capitalise on England’s Euro 2022 triumph before switching to fluent Spanish when revealing her “dream job” in football.

These fascinating insights are offered on an afternoon when, glowing with energy, Hayes says: “I had an off-season taking in life and enjoying anything from a walk to a drink. It’s no surprise this is the freshest I’ve felt. I always find a way to read, to study, to be interested. But this summer my study was life. I’ve also reached a point in my career where I’m really enjoying it. I’ve had years where I didn’t but, now, I love the work. There’s a coming together of a football model I’ve been working on my whole career. All the jigsaw pieces are in sync and there’s a lovely energy to the team where it’s a