Ann-Katrin Berger Emma Hayes Chelsea WomenGetty/ GOAL

Trouble for Emma Hayes? Germany coach reveals out-of-favour goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger 'has a problem' with Chelsea boss

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  • Berger has fallen out of favour at Chelsea
  • Germany manager hinted at issue with Hayes
  • Blues sit top of WSL on goal difference
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    Despite taking on a key role for the Blues after joining the club from Birmingham in 2019, Berger has fallen out of favour this season, being reduced to just five Women's Super League appearances. She has not featured in the league since the 4-1 loss to Arsenal in early December.

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  • Ann-Katrin Berger Chelsea women 2023-24Getty

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Despite seeing Hannah Hampton replace her in the Chelsea starting XI, the 33-year-old was called up to the Germany squad for the upcoming European Championship qualification matches against Austria and Iceland. Merle Frohms is expected to be given the nod ahead of Berger, but Hrubesch has expressed his confidence in the Chelsea shot stopper.

  • WHAT HRUBESCH SAID

    He told reporters: "Ann-Katrin Berger is a very experienced player who has proven herself for many years. In my eyes she is the type that's very valuable for the team. At the moment she's playing in England and - as far as I can tell - has a few problems with her coach over there. But I know her qualities. That's why it was important for me, to have two experienced keepers at the position, plus a young one from Frankfurt. With those three we're very well off."

  • Erin Cuthbert Chelsea Women West Ham 2023-24Getty Images

    WHAT NEXT FOR BERGER?

    Berger will likely watch on from the sidelines as Chelsea take on Ajax in the Champions League on Wednesday and then visit Arsenal in the FA Women's League Cup on Sunday before she joins up with the Germany squad.