Football
25 Jan 2025
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Sonia Bompastor’s Dream Chelsea Starting XI if Naomi Girma Signs

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Chelsea Reportedly Close to Signing Naomi Girma

Chelsea are rumored to be on the verge of completing a groundbreaking transfer for USA international Naomi Girma. The 24-year-old defender, currently playing for San Diego Wave, has been hailed by former Chelsea manager Emma Hayes as one of the best defenders in the world. This high praise adds significant weight to Girma’s potential arrival, which would not only bolster Chelsea’s defense but also send ripples across the Women’s Super League (WSL) and European football.

Girma’s Impact on Chelsea’s Defense

Chelsea’s need for defensive reinforcements became apparent after Canadian international Kadeisha Buchanan sustained an ACL injury earlier this season. The Blues have relied on Nathalie Bjorn to fill the void, but Girma’s arrival would be a transformative addition. Her presence could enhance Chelsea’s quest for a first UEFA Women’s Champions League title and solidify their dominance in the WSL, where they currently sit seven points clear at the top of the table.

With top clubs like Lyon and Arsenal reportedly vying for Girma’s signature, Chelsea’s ability to secure her services demonstrates their ambition and pull in the transfer market.

Chelsea’s Current Lineup Under Sonia Bompastor

Goalkeeper

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Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton / Diego Souto/GettyImages

Chelsea’s goalkeeping options are robust, with Hannah Hampton standing out as the undisputed first choice. Swedish international Zecira Musovic has performed admirably in Hampton’s absence, but Hampton’s reliability ensures her place in key matches.

Defenders

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The big question will be who partners Millie Bright of Naomi Girma signs / Visionhaus/GettyImages

On the defensive flanks, Lucy Bronze a free-agent signing from Barcelona has been a consistent starter this season. The opposite flank has seen rotation, with Ashley Lawrence and Sandy Baltimore featuring prominently. However, Niamh Charles’ recent return from injury places her back in contention for the left-back spot. This development could push Eve Perisset further down the pecking order.

At the heart of the defense, Millie Bright remains a stalwart presence. Initially paired with Buchanan, Bright has since been partnered with Bjorn following Buchanan’s injury. If Girma’s transfer is finalized, she will undoubtedly slot in as Bright’s new partner, bringing a world-class dynamic to Chelsea’s backline.

Midfielders

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Sjoeke Nusken is a regular starter for Chelsea in midfield / Crystal Pix/MB Media/GettyImages

Double Pivot

Chelsea’s midfield has been anchored by Sjoeke Nusken and Erin Cuthbert, who operate as a double pivot in Bompastor’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation. Nusken’s consistency since joining from Eintracht Frankfurt in 2023 has made her an integral part of the team.

Wide Midfielders and Playmakers

On the wings, Guro Reiten and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd are the first-choice options when fully fit. Kaneryd, in particular, has been one of Chelsea’s standout players despite some minor injury setbacks. In the playmaker role, Lauren James would typically be the primary choice. However, Wieke Kaptein has emerged as a strong alternative, while Catarina Macario has also contributed in this position when called upon.

Forwards

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Mayra Ramirez has stepped up in Sam Kerr and Mia Fishel’s absence / Alex Davidson/GettyImages

Chelsea’s attacking lineup has been reshaped by injuries to key players Sam Kerr and Mia Fishel, both sidelined with ACL injuries. In their absence, Colombia international Mayra Ramirez has stepped up impressively. Since her January move last year, Ramirez has scored six goals and registered four assists across all competitions, establishing herself as Chelsea’s most productive forward.

Chelsea’s Expected Starting XI With Naomi Girma

If the Naomi Girma deal is completed, Chelsea’s lineup is likely to be as follows:

Dream XI (4-2-3-1)

  • Goalkeeper: Hannah Hampton
  • Defenders: Lucy Bronze, Naomi Girma, Millie Bright, Niamh Charles
  • Midfielders: Sjoeke Nusken, Erin Cuthbert; Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, Wieke Kaptein, Guro Reiten
  • Forward: Mayra Ramirez

What Girma’s Signing Means for Chelsea

The addition of Naomi Girma would mark a significant milestone in Chelsea’s evolution under Sonia Bompastor. With an already strong squad, Girma’s inclusion enhances their defensive stability and increases their chances of securing both domestic and European glory. Her arrival also underscores Chelsea’s intent to remain at the forefront of women’s football, setting the stage for an exciting second half of the season.

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