Bompastor Says Sam Kerr Close to Comeback but Urges Patience.
Chelsea Women head coach Sonia Bompastor has revealed that Sam Kerr is edging closer to a return after a long and demanding recovery from a knee injury, but has stressed that patience will be key as the striker builds back to full fitness.
Speaking after Chelsea’s final pre-season match, Bompastor suggested Kerr could feature in the Women’s Super League opener against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge on Friday night.
However, she stopped short of confirming whether the Australia international will be involved.
Kerr has been sidelined since January 2024, and anticipation has grown as she gradually works her way back. Despite that excitement, Bompastor made it clear supporters should not expect an instant return to peak form.
“Sam is doing well,” Bompastor said. “She’s had some minutes in pre-season, but after being out for 15 or 16 months, it’s unrealistic to expect her to be immediately at her best. We all want her back because she’s an incredible player, but we need to give her time.
The Chelsea boss added that Kerr is in a strong mental place and progressing well, even if full sharpness will take a little longer. “She’s not far away, but getting her back to her very best will require patience,” she explained.
Chelsea wrapped up their pre-season with an impressive 4-1 victory over AC Milan at Kingsmeadow, with Aggie Beever-Jones grabbing a hat-trick. There was, however, a slight concern when Mayra Ramírez was forced off after 34 minutes with discomfort behind her knee.
Bompastor said the issue will be assessed but remained hopeful. “It’s too early to say what it is, but hopefully it’s nothing serious. She felt okay after the match,” she said.
She also explained that several players were rested by design, with some completing training sessions instead. This allowed younger players to get valuable minutes ahead of the new season.
Reflecting on last year’s trophy-filled campaign, Bompastor acknowledged the achievement but insisted the focus must now shift to starting fresh. “We stayed unbeaten domestically, which was amazing, but that’s in the past,” she said. “What matters now is carrying the same winning mentality into the new season.”
Chelsea begin their WSL title defence against Manchester City on Friday, with the club also set to celebrate England’s Women’s European Championship triumph at Stamford Bridge. However, Lucy Bronze and Lauren James will miss the opener as they continue recovering from injuries picked up during the Euros.
