'You immediately fall in love with her and her mentality' - Emma Hayes was the reason USWNT star Catarina Macario left champions League winners Lyon for Chelsea!

Macario joined the English side in the summer transfer window after winning the Champions League with Lyon in 2022.

Hayes has been in charge of the London club for 11 years and has guided them to six Women's Super League titles and five FA Cup successes, while she was also received the FIFA The Best Women's Coach Award for 2021.

The Blues boss' relationship with her players has been seen as a key aspect amid her success with the club and United States star Macario says she is impressed by the love and passion that Hayes shows.

"When you are wanted by Hayes, it is hard to say no," she told The Daily Mail.

"You immediately fall in love with her and her mentality. She’s a very passionate individual. She has tough love with her players which is something that brings out the best in you. But she’ll also give you praise, the little things when it’s needed."

Hayes hopes that her Chelsea team can get the new season underway with a positive result as they face Tottenham in their WSL opener on Sunday.