Melvine Malard has joined Chelsea from Manchester United on a four-year contract, hungry for trophies and ready to reunite with head coach Sonia Bompastor. The France forward, 26, completed the move for approximately £850,000 after three seasons at United, where she scored four goals last season. Chelsea fans are eager to see how Malard’s pace and finishing will bolster their attack.
Malard’s Trophy-Hunting Mindset
“I’m so happy because I have a plan for my life and my career, and Chelsea were a part of that plan,” Malard said. “My objective is to become better every single day and to win trophies. I know Chelsea always have that as an objective.” Her arrival signals Chelsea’s intent to reclaim the Women’s Super League title after losing key players like Sam Kerr and Guro Reiten to Gotham FC.
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Reunion with Sonia Bompastor
Malard previously played under Bompastor at Lyonnes, where she won four Champions Leagues and three league titles. “I have known Sonia since I was 14 years old, so it is great to work with her again,” Malard added. The familiarity could accelerate her integration into Chelsea’s system.
Transfer Details and Impact
Manchester United opted to sell Malard with one year left on her contract rather than lose her on a free transfer next summer. The £850,000 fee is a record sale for the club’s women’s team. United plan to reinvest the money into their squad before the transfer window closes on 3 September. They have already signed full-back Andrea Medina from Atlético Madrid but need more reinforcements after several departures.
| Player | From | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Melvine Malard | Manchester United | £850,000 |
| Katie McCabe | Arsenal | Undisclosed |
| Manaka Matsukubo | North Carolina Courage | Undisclosed |
Key Takeaways
- Malard joins Chelsea on a four-year contract for a record £850,000 fee.
- She reunites with coach Sonia Bompastor, who coached her at Lyonnes.
- Chelsea have lost several forwards but added Malard, McCabe, and Matsukubo.
- Manchester United will reinvest the transfer fee into their squad.
Malard’s Career Achievements
During seven seasons at Lyonnes, Malard won four Champions Leagues, three league titles, and two Coupes de France. Her first season at Manchester United was on loan before making the move permanent. She brings a wealth of experience and a proven winning mentality to Chelsea.
FAQ
How much did Chelsea pay for Melvine Malard?
Chelsea paid approximately £850,000 for Melvine Malard, a record sale for Manchester United's women's team.
Why did Manchester United sell Malard?
United sold Malard because she had one year left on her contract and wanted a move. They chose to sell now rather than lose her on a free transfer next summer.
Who has Chelsea signed this summer besides Malard?
Chelsea have also signed former Arsenal full-back Katie McCabe and forward Manaka Matsukubo from North Carolina Courage.
Malard’s move to Chelsea marks a significant shift in the Women’s Super League landscape. With her hunger for trophies and proven track record, she could be the missing piece for Chelsea’s title ambitions.