Chelsea’s new signing Alejandra Bernabe has expressed her delight after her move to the Women’s Super League champions was confirmed by the club.

The Spanish international has joined the Blues from Atletico Madrid on a three-year contract and, asked about how she felt about the move, the defender replied:

‘I am so happy to be here and I’m grateful for the opportunity that Chelsea have given to me. I’m so excited because it’s one of the biggest clubs in the world.”

Bernabe won’t, though, be part of the London club’s first-team plans for next season, with the left-back being sent straight out on loan to Liga F side Real Sociedad to continue her development.

Bernabe’s career profile

The fullback came through the youth ranks at Madrid CFF before making her senior debut for the Spanish side in 2018. She then moved to Atletico a year later, being part of the club’s B Team setup.

Bernabe did break into the first team in 2020, helping to win the Spanish Super Cup prior to being sent out on two loan spells at Elche and Real Sociedad. She played in the Champions League for the latter and Chelsea feel that she can continue progressing in San Sebastien next season.

The defender’s impressive form with Sociedad helped her win her first cap for Spain against Argentina last year and she will be hoping for more in the future.

Style of Play

Manager Emma Hayes says she is delighted to recruit someone with Bernabe’s profile. The fullback has a very strong left foot, as well as being a decent ball carrier and possessing a high work rate.

Those three attributes should hold her in good stead going forward but Chelsea fans will have to wait at least a year before seeing her put on a Blues shirt.