Wiegman says player-coach relationships ‘very inappropriate’

ENGLAND boss Sarina Wiegman says player-coach relationships are “very inappropriate” and something “we should not accept”.

The Dutchwoman emphasised the importance of safe environments and the need for individuals to be aware of their responsibility.

Earlier this month Chelsea head coach Emma Hayes said such relationships should be banned in the Women’s Super League, while Aston Villa boss Carla Ward said a manager should be sacked for having a relationship with a player, calling it a “complete abuse of power”.

“I think player-coach relations are very inappropriate. I think we should not accept that, that’s not healthy,” Wiegman told a press conference on Tuesday

“I think in our environment, it’s a professional environment, it’s all about performing and it should always be safe.

“Things can happen, but it’s inappropriate and we all should be very aware of that.”

When asked if there should be a blanket ban implemented, Wiegman said: “I think it is common sense, we all know that if we are in this environment, it is really inappropriate, and I think if we all take our responsibility, then things wouldn’t happen – but when it happens too often you need regulations.

“I’ll leave that up to others. I just hope every environment I work in that’s how we work and we always talk about safe environments.

“This is one of the things that should be really safe, and that everyone is really aware of the responsibility we have.”

Wiegman, meanwhile, said she was “surprised” at Arsenal’s plan to play an exhibition match in Melbourne on May 24 – a trip she feels is “not good” for players.

The Gunners last week announced their women’s team will head out to Australia to face an ‘A League Allstars’ side in the end-ofseason fixture. England are set to play Euro 2025 qualifiers against France at St James’ Park on May 31 and then away on June 3.

Wiegman added: “I was surprised about that trip. I think for all the players, with an already complicated calendar, it’s not good for them to go to the other side of the world.

“It’s very short term, not having the time to adapt and play a game and come back and go for us.”