MY ACCOUNT
Melanie Leupolz has set her sights on winning the Champions League after extending her stay at Chelsea until the summer of 2026.
The Germany midfielder, 28, gave birth to her first child last October and is returning to Emma Hayes’ squad following maternity leave.
And having won two Women’s Super League titles, two Women’s FA Cups, the Continental League Cup and Community Shield since joining the Blues from Bayern Munich in March 2020, she is relishing the opportunity to lift more silverware.
Leupolz said: “When I was leaving Bayern, Chelsea was my favourite club and I wanted to join. I was really lucky that it worked out and my time here has been so special.
“I played the first one-and-a-half years and it feels like I’m not done here, which is why I wanted to extend.
“I want more games with the team, more chances to win titles and one big ambition is to win the Champions League.”
After finishing her first season in West London with nine goals in 34 appearances, Leupolz netted in the FA Cup semi-final victory over Manchester City last term as the Blues went on to lift the trophy with a win over Arsenal at Wembley.
Having not featured since December 2021, she announced her pregnancy three months later.
Chelsea general manager Paul Green said: “We are delighted Melanie has extended her contract after returning from maternity leave.
“Melly played a key part in our success in her first 18 months at the club and will almost be like a new signing coming back in to the squad this month.”
Champions Chelsea are three points clear at the top of the WSL heading into their Matchday 11 showdown with London rivals Arsenal on Sunday.
