Sam Kerr’s uncertain future: should Chelsea keep him?
Kerr’s status at Chelsea was undisputed before he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during his peak in January 2024.
She took more than 18 months to recover and is still returning to full fitness as Chelsea struggle to live up to expectations this season.
Kerr has also faced difficulties off the pitch. He was found not guilty of racially aggravated assault against a Metropolitan Police officer in 2025—the result of a court case that came to light and caused controversy.
Due to the incident, there were demands in her home country to snatch the captaincy of Australia from her, while in England she was out of the limelight.
It has also been a period of change for Kerr, as he has married former West Ham midfielder Christy Mewis and they have a son, born in May.
In his absence, Chelsea remained unbeaten domestically and won the treble in manager Sonia Bompastor’s first campaign, but this year has not gone to plan.
Injuries – particularly in attacking positions – players leaving the club and poor performances mean Chelsea will miss out on the Women’s Super League title and the Women’s Champions League.
Despite this, Kerr has struggled to regain his place in the starting eleven, playing just 444 minutes in the WSL this season.
He has made 15 appearances in the league but started only two games, while in Europe he has scored three goals in three starts.
Bompastor has fewer options up front, with USA striker Catarina Macario joining the San Diego Wave and Aggie Beaver-Jones and Mayra Ramirez injured.
So has Kerr been overlooked?
“She has been in almost every league game this season but has only started two league games. The number nine position has been difficult for Chelsea,” former Scotland captain Rachel Corsie said on BBC Radio 5 Live.
Lauren James has played there to bring Alyssa Thompson and Johanna Wrighting Conreid into the team, who have been in good form. There are several different factors.
“But they haven’t got a number nine. Chelsea need a number nine. Letting Sam Kerr go without a replacement would be a big move.”
