Chelsea midfielder Mara Alber has joined Werder Bremen on loan for the remainder of the season, as the Blues look to accelerate the development of one of Europe’s most highly rated young midfielders.
The 20-year-old only arrived in west London last summer after Chelsea triggered a release clause to sign her from TSG Hoffenheim on a four-year contract, but competitive minutes have been limited during the opening months of her time in England.
With senior opportunities hard to come by in a demanding Women’s Super League campaign, a return to Germany has been agreed to ensure regular top-flight football.
No WSL debut yet
Alber has yet to make her league debut for Chelsea and has been named among the substitutes on only two occasions, a reflection of both the squad depth available and the pressure of competing at the top end of the WSL table. Chelsea’s difficult start to the season has reduced opportunities to rotate, leaving younger players on the fringes despite strong reputations.
Internationally, Alber’s progress has been far more visible. She has continued to feature for Germany’s under-23 side, scoring once in limited appearances, underlining why Chelsea moved decisively to secure her long-term future. Her loan switch is viewed internally as a developmental step rather than a setback, giving her the platform to translate youth-level promise into consistent senior performances.
Mara Alber will spend the rest of the season on loan at Werder Bremen.
— Chelsea FC Women (@ChelseaFCW) January 6, 2026
Werder Bremen offer that environment. Currently sitting third in the Frauen-Bundesliga, they remain competitive at the top end without the intense title pressure found elsewhere, a balance that should allow Alber to play with freedom while adapting to new tactical demands. The move also represents a slight step up from her former club Hoffenheim in league positioning, adding an extra edge to the challenge.
Any future with the Blues?
Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor will monitor Alber’s progress closely, with three years still remaining on her contract beyond this season. The expectation is that regular minutes in Germany will sharpen her decision-making and physical readiness, placing her in a stronger position to compete for a role in Chelsea’s midfield on her return.
For now, the focus is clear. A temporary move designed to build momentum, confidence, and match sharpness, with Chelsea still firmly committed to Alber as a long-term project rather than a short-term solution. With top-level experience in Germany, she should come back as a far better prospect.