A top-quality goalkeeper is a crucial component of any winning football team. Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor has just that in Hannah Hampton.
During Bompastor's time at Chelsea, Hampton has claimed her place as England’s number one, helped the Blues to win a domestic Treble, and won the Women’s European Championship with the Lionesses
And on Monday, the 24-year-old received the first-ever women’s Yashin Trophy, an honour awarded to the world's standout goalkeeper.
Hampton is now officially considered the best in her position – and Bompastor is acutely aware of what she brings to her Chelsea side. Yet the Blues head coach is also proud of how Hampton spoke out in support of others during her acceptance speech.
‘I’m really proud of her,’ said the head coach explained in her pre-match press conference ahead of our trip to West Ham United. ‘Her speech was incredible. She’s really mature on and off the pitch, and she's the best goalkeeper in the world right now. I'm glad she is playing for Chelsea.
‘It’s a really good moment for the club. Hannah was able to represent the club in the best way possible. I'm really proud of what she's achieving with the club right now and what she's doing on the pitch.’
Bompastor believes increased exposure for Hampton following England’s Euro 2025 win has enabled many to discover what she has always known: that Chelsea’s goalkeeper has a special gift. Not only is that visible through her goalkeeping talent, but also in the way she treats others.
‘I think she's been exposed, and this is why maybe now people are starting to understand more about Hannah and who she is,’ explained Bompastor. ‘On and off the pitch. I think it's a good picture for her.
‘I've known her for more than one season now, and I'm not surprised. She's someone who has very high standards. She wants to work hard on the pitch, and she always wants to make sure she's in the right environment to work out how it’s possible to be the best.
‘She's someone (who is) demanding, but also off the pitch, she's someone who you can trust, you can have some really good conversations with. It’s important for us also to recognise that.’