USWNT coach Emma Hayes says it was 'the right time' to leave Chelsea

Hayes called time on her 12-year stint as Chelsea head coach at the end of last season as she stepped down from the mantle and joined the United States women's national team. The 48-year-old has now opened up on her departure from the London side and expressed how tough it was to leave the side with whom she won seven Women's Super League titles and five Women's FA Cups.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Hayes said: "I didn't realise how difficult it would be when I made the decision to move to the U.S at the end of the season.

"It was challenging to manage everything. The expectations, the press… it took a toll on me. To get over the line with the backdrop of all those things, I felt I could leave with my head held high."

Hayes also opened up on her farewell at Old Trafford in front of Sir Alex Ferguson, she added: "Mixed is the right emotion.

"To do it in front of the fans, my heart was so full. To be with them, to do it at Old Trafford, at Sir Alex's old stomping ground, it's etched into my heart."

Hayes also discussed Chelsea perfect start under her successor Bompastor and said: "I'm so happy with their start to the season, so happy with Sonia's start with a group of players and people I know are tremendous. That to me, that's what it's all about.

"Because I'm happy with where I'm at and I know I couldn't have given any more, it's only right for the players to have a different direction. I'm the middle child of three, jealousy and envy don't enter my mind, I'm not that person.

"I know the changing room Sonia's got and I'm happy for her, that she gets to enjoy the fruits of many people's labour of a long period of time and put her own stamp on it.

"If Chelsea go onto bigger and better things… oh, that's my perfect story. All those players in the locker room know that about me. They have a growth mindset, Chelsea look fantastic this season and I'm delighted for them."

The former Chelsea manager is enjoying her time with the USWNT and also talked about her new job. Hayes said: "I have moments when I reflect on my time there. Every time I come back to the same thing; I'm grateful for the opportunity, grateful to be in the job for so long. It was the right time for everyone to move on.

"Now I'm on the other side of it I've created a situation I can enjoy it as a fan. I know I'm a national team coach for USA but I'll always love Chelsea."