Chelsea Women’s boss Emma Hayes has rejected links between herself and the vacant AFC Wimbledon job, believing that it would be a step down from her current role.
Speaking in the press conference ahead of her sides FA WSL Cup semi-final against West Ham, Hayes was quick to distance the gap between the men and women’s game.
“First of all, I am the manager of Chelsea. I manage and represent elite, world-class players and this for me is an amazing job. I’ve spent the last nine years cultivating all my energy into it.”
Hayes was quick to describe the gap between the two sides, suggesting that Wimbledon could “absolutely not” afford her, believing the achievements her side has attained reflect both clubs current standings.
“Women’s football is something to celebrate, and the quality and the achievements of all the females I represent,” said Hayes. “It’s an insult to them that we talk about women’s football being a step down, with the dedication and the commitment and the quality they have.”
Hayes has experienced unprecedented success at Chelsea, where she has won three WSL titles and two Women’s FA Cups in nine seasons, with her side currently top of the Women’s Super League.
Chelsea have been in strong form under Hayes, winning ten of their first 12 league games, and are 33 games unbeaten going back to last season.
There has yet to be a female manager in the EFL in the league’s history, with Hayes long being suggested to be the first through her success with The Blues.
However, Hayes strongly suggested that she would only consider a move to a club at the same level as her current Chelsea side, expressing disappointment with not being linked to a job in the men’s game that reflects her position as one of the most successful managers in the women’s game.
“I think that’s what I’m disappointed with, not being linked to a football job as a football coach, regardless of gender.”
The three time Super League winner felt that the discussion should be much less focused on her, but more on the lack of inclusivity not just for female managers, but for BAME managers in the men’s professional game.
“This is not a conversation about Emma Hayes and AFC Wimbledon, but we should be having larger conversations about creating opportunities across the diverse spectrum so that opportunities in the men’s game are not limited to those in the privileged positions.”
AFC Wimbledon let go of former manager Glyn Hodges on Saturday, after a run of 11 games without a win left his side 22nd in League 1, one point from safety.
Hayes did wish well for The Dons in their pursuit of a new manager, but reaffirmed her lack of interest in the job due to her standing with Chelsea.
“I sincerely hope AFC Wimbledon find the right candidate for their football club. The whole point about them not being able to afford me is nothing to do with money, but everything to do with the fact that I’m in the best job in the world.”
“No amount of money is going to tempt me away from that.”
