Sun Jan 05 20:19:40 UTC 2025: ## Chelsea’s Mpome Thriving Amidst a Season of Firsts
**Lisbon, Portugal** – Chelsea Women’s defender Maelys Mpome is settling into life in London seamlessly, reflecting on a whirlwind first few months filled with significant milestones. The 21-year-old, who joined the Blues from Montpellier in the summer, has already made six appearances, including four in the UEFA Champions League.
In an exclusive interview from Chelsea’s winter training camp in Portugal, Mpome highlighted her Champions League debut against Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge as a career highlight. While her initial appearance was a brief substitute role in a closely contested match, the experience was unforgettable. She has since earned her first start, showcasing her adaptability and quickly rising to the challenges of a new league and country.
Mpome openly acknowledges the steep learning curve, citing the intensity of the Women’s Super League and adapting to English culture as her biggest challenges. However, she credits her teammates for making the transition remarkably smooth, emphasizing the welcoming and supportive atmosphere within the squad. The presence of several fellow French players, including head coach Sonia Bompastor, has also provided invaluable comfort.
The young defender is eager to build upon her early success. With Chelsea currently sitting six points clear at the top of the league and advancing in the Champions League, Mpome is focused on securing more playing time in the second half of the season. She aims to continue proving herself while balancing the demands of adapting to a new environment and maintaining her high performance standards. The Portuguese training camp, she says, has been invaluable in further strengthening team bonds and preparing for the challenges ahead. Mpome is contracted to Chelsea until 2028, suggesting a long and potentially illustrious career with the club.
First Piper 