Chelsea finalise signing of Manchester United forward Melvine Malard
Chelsea have officially completed the signing of Manchester United forward Melvine Malard. The deal for the France international is valued at £750,000. Malard has committed to a four-year deal with the Blues, marking a significant move in her career.
This transfer sees Malard reuniting with Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor. Their previous collaboration was at OL Lyonnes, where they achieved success by winning the Champions League in 2022. Malard expressed her enthusiasm for joining Chelsea, stating that the club was part of her life and career plan, and she is excited to begin.
Last season, Malard demonstrated her scoring ability, netting six times in the WSL and adding four goals in the Champions League for Manchester United. Her contract with United had only one year remaining. There was also interest from other clubs, with two NWSL teams in the States reportedly submitting offers for the forward.
Malard’s connection with Bompastor
Malard’s relationship with Sonia Bompastor dates back to when she was 14 years old. Bompastor played a crucial role in Malard’s early career, spotting her talent at Clairefontaine during regional competitions and bringing her to Lyon’s Academy. Malard highlighted Bompastor’s significant influence on her life and career, noting that she would not be where she is today without Bompastor’s guidance.
The forward has already experienced considerable success in the Champions League, having won the trophy three times before Bompastor became Lyon head coach in 2021. While Malard described her role in those initial victories as minor, she was a starter in the 2022 Champions League final in Turin, where Lyon defeated Barcelona 3-1. This experience underscores her familiarity with high-stakes matches and winning environments.
Malard expressed her belief that working with Bompastor again will help her elevate her game. She noted that Bompastor knows her well, understands areas for improvement, and can provide the necessary push for her development. This long-standing professional relationship is a key factor in her move to Chelsea.
Ambitions and personal journey
Malard’s personality shone through in her initial interactions at Stamford Bridge, where she introduced herself to staff and was seen laughing with her family. She grew up on the island of Reunion, where she initially tried boxing and played handball before focusing on football. Her decision to leave home at a young age to pursue a professional football career in France demonstrates her determination and ambition.
She is eager to contribute to Chelsea’s success, stating her objective is to improve daily and win trophies. Malard acknowledged Chelsea’s consistent pursuit of silverware, an ambition she shares. She also looks forward to playing regularly at Stamford Bridge, appreciating the incredible atmosphere and the close proximity of the pitch to the fans, which allows her to feel their energy.
Malard’s move to Manchester United in 2023, initially on loan before becoming permanent a year later, saw her make 21 goal contributions in 57 appearances over three years. Now at Chelsea, she aims to reach new heights under Bompastor’s guidance. Her personal goals include becoming a top striker, winning trophies with Chelsea, and continuing the club’s winning tradition. She also hopes to win the Champions League with Chelsea, a trophy the club has not yet secured.
Malard is confident in Chelsea’s ability to achieve this goal, noting the team’s mix of experienced, young, fun, and focused players. She is excited to join her new teammates and contribute to the club’s future successes. The France international has signed a four-year contract with the Blues.
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Source: skysports.com
