In October 2022, Melanie Leupolz became a mother. Three months later, she was back playing for Chelsea and was part of the side that clinched a domestic double under Emma Hayes.

Then came the Women's World Cup, at which Leupolz started Germany's 6-0 victory over Morocco. It proved the midfielder's last outing for her national team as, in September, she called time on her successful international career.

‘I was really young when I went to the national team for the first time for the seniors,' Leupolz reflects on her career with Germany, for whom she played 79 times across ten years.

'I was training with these big players in Germany like Melanie Behringer and Linda Bresonik. I learned a lot from them. I was super young and aged 19 when playing my first tournament.

‘We won the Euros in Sweden; we played the World Cup in Canada; we won the Olympics in 2016, which was the last title for Germany. I’m happy to have been part of the successful times we had as a national team. It’s nice to have trophies and nice memories.’

An inspirational figure on and off the pitch, Leupolz spoke honestly about the reasons behind her decision to step away from the international stage – and is proud that she was able to represent Germany at another World Cup before hanging up the boots.

‘Coming to Chelsea, playing abroad, playing in the Champions League and two [domestic] cups, it is really intense. With the baby now, it was the right decision for me to step down from the international stage.

'At the same time, it was really important for me to play another World Cup because that is the trophy I’m missing.

‘Going back to the national team after the pregnancy was a really proud moment and representing my country again. I wanted to play this tournament and I’m happy I achieved this.

'Unfortunately, we were not successful as a team but for me, it was a proud moment being back on the stage and showing that it’s possible.’

With her focus now on motherhood and Chelsea, Leupolz is excited about the future – and winning the Champions League is high on the wish list.

‘I want to focus on Chelsea because it’s intense and you have to give everything every single day here. We have such a great team and I want to focus on here and save my energy. It’s less travelling for me and the baby when other players are away.

‘It’s also good to enjoy this football journey a little bit longer, playing on the highest stage because I have some rest moments which I haven’t had in a couple of years. It’s always a little bit sad retiring from the national team because it’s the end.

‘We have so many dreams and hopes here at Chelsea, including winning the Champions League, so now it’s time to focus on the club.’