With the WSL title beyond their reach, Chelsea’s season has quickly unravelled, and this was a crushing blow dealt by their London rivals.
Pressure has built around manager Bompastor and the club, and this latest setback will only increase that external noise.
However, there was no shame in Chelsea’s Champions League exit. They faced one of Europe’s most talented teams and struggled with an injury-depleted squad.
Bompastor’s side attempted everything at Stamford Bridge – hitting the post through Buurman late on in a frantic ending, after Kerr had tested goalkeeper Van Domselaar on several occasions.
Chelsea’s manager has consistently called for more squad depth – and they will need a summer rebuild.
With Arsenal having developed into one of Europe’s leading clubs, and Manchester City looking set to clinch the WSL title, Chelsea know they cannot afford to drop behind.
“Everyone is trying hard and working hard to make sure they catch up with us. I think this season has shown that,” said Bompastor afterwards.
“To be honest with you, yeah, this season from us is not good enough, with our ambitions. I’m a manager that will always give clarity at the start of the season, saying we want to win the four titles.
“When I give you that clarity, I always give you the opportunity to question that. Other managers might just say ‘we try our best.’
“But at a club like Chelsea this is not good enough, for sure. I’m not happy with the fact I can’t help the team more than I have this season.”
