Ellie Carpenter has explained why joining Chelsea was the ‘best thing’ for her career, while away with Australia ahead of their upcoming friendlies against Wales and England.
The 25-year-old right back joined the Women’s Super League Champions from Lyon during the summer transfer window.
She has made an impressive start with the Blues, providing assists in victories over Tottenham and Manchester City.
Carpenter is expected to be in action for Australia in their upcoming friendlies this week.
She will be joined by Chelsea teammate Sam Kerr, who is making her long-awaited return to action for Australia following her ACL injury.
Why Ellie Carpenter left Lyon for Chelsea?
Ellie Carpenter left one of Europe’s biggest clubs in Lyon to join Chelsea over the summer.
“The move to Chelsea was the best thing for my football career,” Carpenter said ahead of Australia’s clash with Wales this weekend.
“The league is very competitive and I can only just see my game improving in small parts.
“Every game is hard, and the training environment also is intense. I’m fighting for my position on the field to start.
“It’s a great challenge for me in my career with where I’m at, I’m really happy with how the season has started, and being under Sonia again, that’s also nice.”
Carpenter also explained that she wanted to be out of her ‘comfort zone’ by joining the WSL champions.
“For me, being in the (Chelsea) environment, it will really push me. I’m a very competitive person, so I really love a challenge, and it’s bringing out the best in me.”
🇦🇺 Sam Kerr and Ellie Carpenter both reporting for international duty. pic.twitter.com/4lDJqXOcS1
— Chelsea Women (@CFC__Women) October 20, 2025
Will Ellie Carpenter lose her place to Lucy Bronze?
Ellie Carpenter is set to face stiff competition from Lucy Bronze after the international break, after the England star recently made her return.
Bronze played one minute against Tottenham before playing 30 minutes in their Champions League victory over Paris FC.
Although both players are best-suited for the right-back role, Chelsea boss Sonia Bompastor says that they could play together.
If this were to happen, Bronze would likely be moved to centre-back where she has played in the past.
What is next for Carpenter?
Carpenter and Australia will travel to the Cardiff City Stadium to face Wales on Saturday, October 25th.
The upcoming friendlies for Wales will be Jess Fishlock’s last time representing her country after she announced her international retirement.
Fishlock told SheKicks that her international retirement will be a bittersweet moment.
Pride Park Stadium in Derby will then play host to England vs Australia on Tuesday, October 28th.
Chelsea will then return to action on November 2nd against newly promoted London City Lionesses.
