Chelsea star Melanie Leupolz has announced that she is pregnant with her first child.
The midfielder will not play for the Blues again this season, though she will continue light training while being supported by the club’s medical staff in the coming months.
A statement from the club said the 27-year-old “announced the happy news of her pregnancy to staff and teammates” this week.
“We look forward to welcoming Melanie back following her maternity leave and we are excited to welcome a new addition to the Blues family,” the statement added.
The German international signed for Chelsea from Bayern Munich in 2020 and was a key part of the team that won a domestic treble last season while also reaching the Champions League final.
Her absence will be a significant blow to Emma Hayes’ side as they look to defend their Women’s Super League crown. They currently trail leaders Arsenal by eight points but have three games in hand.
Leupolz is also set to miss this summer’s European Championships in England, with Germany boss Martina Voss-Tecklenburg sending her congratulations.
“Although it’s a big loss for us for this summer’s EUROs, that isn’t what matters - we’re absolutely thrilled for her!” she said.
