'Thank you for being blue' - Chelsea bid emotional farewell to club legend Sophie Ingle as WSL stalwart heads for exit

Ingle has announced her decision to leave Chelsea at the end of her contract this summer. The 33-year-old Welsh midfielder first joined the Blues in 2012, spending two seasons with the club before moving on to Bristol Academy and Liverpool. She returned to Chelsea in 2018 and has since played a key role in the team’s success, helping the club win five Women's Super League titles, three FA Cups, two League Cups, and the Community Shield. Over her two stints with Chelsea, Ingle made 214 appearances and scored 12 goals, cementing her legacy as a vital part of the club’s recent dominance.

With Ingle departing Chelsea this season, the Blues have now posted an emotional message for the 33-year-old that reads: "After 214 appearances, Sophie Ingle will depart Chelsea at the end of the season. Thank you for being blue, Sophie."

Speaking to Chelsea's club media, Ingle said: "Chelsea is a special club and since I returned seven years ago, I have felt the support of everyone, both on and off the pitch.

"I’m very proud to have lifted 11 trophies here and am grateful to have done that alongside team-mates who are like family to me.

"We have achieved so much together, but couldn’t have done that without the fans, who I want to thank for always being there with us throughout the journey."

The 33-year-old Chelsea legend is yet to announce what the future holds for her, as she will likely assess her options once the season is over. Ingle is currently recovering from her ACL injury, and Chelsea also announced that she will stay under contract with the club until her rehabilitation is done.