Ellie Carpenter: Chelsea’s Key Asset in the Pursuit of European Success

LONDON — Ellie Carpenter has emerged as one of the standout signings of the summer. Her impressive performance in Chelsea’s 1-1 draw with Barcelona in the Champions League emphasized her critical importance to the Blues’ quest for European success.

The Australia international right-back opened the scoring against Chelsea’s formidable European rivals, although she did miss a crucial chance that could have secured victory at Stamford Bridge. Nevertheless, her contributions since joining in July have elevated the team’s performance, a remarkable feat considering the world-class squad she has integrated into.

In the 16th minute of a chilly evening in West London, Carpenter won possession in her own half and passed it to striker Aggie Beever-Jones, who had dropped deep to create space. Beever-Jones then played the ball to Carpenter, who charged toward goal and struck a powerful shot past Cata Coll from the edge of the area.

“It was a beautiful pass from Aggie to start, and then I saw space in front of me and just hit it. I’ve been wanting to shoot more and take my chances when they arise,” Carpenter remarked after the match. “I’m proud to have scored my first goal and to help build momentum for the team.”

The goal proved pivotal for Chelsea, sparking a remarkable sequence of play that caught Barcelona off guard. The visitors, who had previously defeated Chelsea 8-2 on aggregate in the semifinals last season, struggled to respond quickly enough. Notably, a nine-minute delay due to a power outage interrupted the momentum Chelsea had built.

Barcelona’s defense found it challenging to contain Carpenter throughout the match; her speed and movement consistently outmaneuvered the Spanish champions. She was instrumental in creating several scoring opportunities that Chelsea regrettably failed to convert.

Carpenter had another opportunity to secure the win shortly after Catarina Macario’s goal was ruled offside. Following a smooth build-up that culminated in a clever backheel from Macario, Carpenter was ideally positioned but, under minimal defensive pressure, dragged her shot just wide. Her reaction, with her head in her hands, reflected the disappointment felt by her, coach Sonia Bompastor, and fans alike—it seemed the moment Chelsea should have clinched the win.

Carpenter’s chances during the match came as no surprise, given her exceptional involvement in goal creation. Among fullbacks, she ranks highly in progressive carries, pass completion, and shot-creating actions, leading the league in progressive passes. These skills have undeniably added a new dimension to Chelsea’s gameplay this season.

Most of Chelsea’s attacking plays have been directed through the right side, with Carpenter playing a prominent role. She has consistently been on the ball, either passing or receiving, contributing to the creation of numerous chances. With an 85.3% pass accuracy—ranking her among the top 10—she is fourth in progressive passes in the Women’s Super League (WSL).

Carpenter’s first goal for Chelsea came in a 2-0 victory over London City Lionesses in the WSL on November 1. In that match, the dynamic fullback freely operated along the wing, showcasing her ability to penetrate the box and elevate both her game and that of her teammates.

There was little doubt about Carpenter’s status as a world-class signing. Her remarkable track record—having previously become the youngest player and goal scorer in NWSL history and winning the Champions League with Lyon in her first season—speaks volumes about her exceptional talent.

Bompastor understands her quality better than anyone, having coached Carpenter at her former club where they secured three league titles and a second Champions League together in 2022. Bompastor’s familiarity with Carpenter’s capabilities likely influenced Chelsea’s determination to recruit the fullback, especially as they sought to secure a long-term solution at right-back with Lucy Bronze’s contract nearing its end.

“I know the quality she brings to this team and what performance she can deliver, as demonstrated tonight,” Bompastor commented following the draw with Barcelona. “She proved her caliber, scored a great goal, and was unfortunate not to net a second. I reassured her that such moments happen.”

Carpenter’s performance against Barcelona reinforces Chelsea’s confidence in having signed her. She is quickly establishing herself as one of the summer’s key signings, with her influence crucial in helping the team maintain stability during a challenging phase.

Currently, Chelsea finds itself outside the top four, which would guarantee automatic qualification for the Champions League knockout stages, following two draws and two wins. However, upcoming matches against Wolfsburg and Roma could alter the standings.

The Blues cannot afford any missteps, particularly in continental competition, as their aspirations to reach a first final since 2021 hang in the balance. Having overcome the psychological barrier posed by Barcelona—who has thwarted the eight-time WSL champions in the semifinals for the past three seasons—Chelsea still faces significant challenges ahead.

To sustain their domestic dominance, which includes an impressive 33-match unbeaten run, and to advance toward a landmark final and an unprecedented quadruple, Carpenter’s influence will be essential.