Whether Magdalena Eriksson will lift another Women’s Super League title is still yet to be seen but the Chelsea captain has already completed the “fairytale” ending.
After six seasons with the club, winning 11 trophies along the way, Eriksson waved farewell to Chelsea supporters in their final home game of the season against rivals Arsenal.
Not only did the centre-back help keep a clean sheet in a 2-0 victory – she also scored.
It is a moment that comes rarely for defenders so when Eriksson poked in Sam Kerr’s header for Chelsea’s second goal shortly before half-time, she opened her arms and ran towards the stands, welcoming a roar of adoration from the Blues faithful at Kingsmeadow.
“I love you guys,” Eriksson said to them afterwards as she, alongside partner and forward Pernille Harder, were honoured in a presentation.
The 29-year-old has made 184 appearances since joining from Linkopings in 2017 and has been a key figure in the driving force behind Chelsea’s three successive WSL titles.
Manchester United’s dramatic stoppage-time win over bitter rivals Manchester City later on Sunday ensured the title race will go down to the final weekend, although it remains in Chelsea’s hands.
“She deserves it. Magda has been so pivotal to our success. For her to get that moment in her final home game, in front of the fans she loves, nothing will mean more to her,” said manager Emma Hayes when she reflected on Eriksson’s goal.
“Everybody wanted that fairytale for her. She has been our captain and leader. I know the work that has gone on behind the scenes to get the team to where it is.
“I just look on the pitch and all I see is the years of work in the background. The meetings, the analysis, the disagreements, the good times and the moments you’re sick looking at each other – it’s all of those things. When they come off, this team has a habit of peaking when it matters.
“There’s three senior leaders in our team [Eriksson, Millie Bright and Maren Mjelde] and I think it’s important the baton is passed on through them.”