Chelsea midfielder Keira Walsh has expressed her long-held ambition to win the Champions League with an English club as Chelsea prepares to face Manchester City in the quarter-finals. Walsh, who recently returned from injury, is eager to make her mark in the upcoming clash.

A Dream Rooted in English Football

Walsh, a key player for England with 82 caps, has already tasted European success twice with Barcelona in 2023 and 2024. However, her dream of lifting the trophy with an English club remains unfulfilled. Reflecting on her journey, Walsh said, "My dream has always been to win the Champions League with an English club, so hopefully, we can do that."

From Barcelona to Chelsea: A New Chapter

After two and a half successful years in Spain, Walsh returned to England, signing with Chelsea on deadline day. She described her time in Barcelona as transformative, both personally and professionally. "I grew as a person and a player, and I created some really special memories with those girls and that club," she shared. Now, she’s focused on bringing her experience to Chelsea’s quest for European glory.

Drawing on Past Success

Walsh’s Champions League victories with Barcelona were nothing short of dramatic. In 2023, Barcelona came from 2-0 down to defeat Wolfsburg 3-2, and in 2024, they secured a comfortable 2-0 win over Lyon. Walsh believes these experiences will be invaluable for Chelsea. "Those experiences you can draw on, even if you are not playing well, you can go and turn it around," she said.

Facing Manchester City: A Test of Character

Walsh has already faced Manchester City twice this season in the Champions League group stage while at Barcelona. Now, as a Chelsea player, she’s ready for another challenge. "I don’t focus too much on City being my old team," she stated. "I am a Chelsea player now, and I will do anything to help Chelsea win."

A Competitive Spirit

Known for her competitive nature, Walsh feels at home in Chelsea’s winning environment. "My competitiveness matched the Chelsea environment," she said. "They are serial winners, and hopefully, I can help them continue to do that."

As Chelsea gears up for the quarter-finals, Walsh’s return to the squad is seen as a significant boost. With her experience, determination, and dream of European success, she could be the key to Chelsea’s Champions League aspirations.