When you hear the name Emma Hayes, your mind probably jumps to the Chelsea FC Women’s manager, known for her fierce leadership and tactical brilliance. But off the pitch, there’s another side to her story—one that includes a life shared with her husband. If you’re curious about Emma Hayes’ husband, you’re not alone. Fans and followers often wonder about the person who supports her through the highs and lows of football life.

Football is a world of intense pressure, and having a strong support system is crucial. Emma Hayes has built a legacy in the women’s game, and behind every great leader, there’s often someone grounding them. So, what do we actually know about her husband? This article dives into the personal life of one of the most respected managers in modern football, shedding light on the man who shares her journey.

From their early days together to how they balance family and football, we’ll explore the quieter side of Emma Hayes’ life. Whether you’re a fan of the sport, a follower of her career, or just curious about how elite sports professionals manage personal relationships, this article will give you a closer look at the partnership that helps keep Emma grounded.

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Table of Contents

• Biography of Emma Hayes
• Who Is Emma Hayes' Husband?
• Their Relationship Through the Years
• Family Life and Raising Kids
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Emma Hayes

Before we get into her personal life, let’s take a quick look at who Emma Hayes is beyond being a football manager. Born on October 1, 1976, in Guildford, England, Emma is one of the most respected figures in women’s football today. She started her career in the U.S., coaching at collegiate and professional levels before returning to England to take the helm at Chelsea in 2012.

Under her leadership, Chelsea has won multiple FA Women’s Super League titles, FA Cups, and League Cups, making her one of the most decorated managers in the league’s history. Known for her passion, tactical knowledge, and no-nonsense approach, Emma has become a role model for many aspiring coaches and players.

Emma Hayes: Quick Bio

Who Is Emma Hayes' Husband?

Emma Hayes is married to Ben Knapper, a man who, like her, has a strong connection to football. Ben is a former youth coach and currently works in football administration. Though he prefers to stay out of the spotlight, his role behind the scenes has been a big part of Emma’s journey.

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The couple met in the early 2000s, and their bond was built on a shared love for the game. Ben has been by her side through her coaching stints in the U.S. and her rise to prominence in England. While Emma handles the spotlight as a manager, Ben supports her from the background, managing the family and offering emotional support when the pressure gets high.

Ben has worked with several clubs, including Chelsea’s youth academy, which made their lives even more intertwined with the football world. Despite the demands of their careers, they’ve managed to keep their family life private, which is rare in today’s age of constant media attention.

Want to know more about life in football families? Learn more about balancing life and sport on our site.

Their Relationship Through the Years

Their relationship has seen its fair share of ups and downs. Emma’s career has taken them across the Atlantic and back again, and moving countries isn’t easy for anyone—especially when you have a growing family. They first met while Emma was coaching in the U.S., and Ben was working with youth teams there.

When Emma took the job at Chelsea in 2012, Ben moved with her and continued working in football administration. It’s clear that their relationship is built on mutual respect and shared values. They support each other’s ambitions, and that’s a big reason why Emma has been able to maintain her success without compromising her personal life.

Emma has spoken in interviews about how important family is to her. She often mentions that having someone like Ben by her side helps her stay balanced, especially during stressful match periods. In fact, she once said in a podcast that having a partner who understands the demands of football is a blessing, not something to take for granted.

Family Life and Raising Kids

Emma and Ben have three children together—a son and two daughters. Raising kids while managing a high-profile football career isn’t easy, but Emma has always made it clear that family comes first. She’s often shared how she tries to switch off from football when she’s at home, focusing on being a mom rather than a manager.

One of the challenges they’ve faced is managing their children’s school schedules and extracurricular activities while traveling for matches. Emma has mentioned in interviews that it’s not always easy, but having Ben handle a lot of the logistics helps her stay focused on her job without feeling overwhelmed.

They’ve also made sure their kids understand the importance of hard work and resilience. Emma believes that football teaches life lessons, and she encourages her children to play sports—not necessarily to follow in her footsteps, but to build character and learn how to handle pressure.

Like many parents today, they also face the challenge of balancing screen time and outdoor activities. Emma has joked in interviews that some nights at home are filled with board games and movie nights, which is a nice contrast to the intensity of match days.

If you’re interested in how elite athletes and coaches manage family life, check this page for more insights and stories from other sports families.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Emma Hayes' husband?

Emma Hayes is married to Ben Knapper, a former youth coach and current football administrator. He has worked with several clubs, including Chelsea’s youth academy, and has been a key support figure in Emma’s career.

How did Emma Hayes and her husband meet?

Emma and Ben met in the early 2000s while Emma was coaching in the U.S. Their shared passion for football helped build a strong foundation for their relationship.

Do Emma Hayes and her husband have kids?

Yes, Emma and Ben have three children together—a son and two daughters. They’ve managed to keep their family life private, despite Emma’s high-profile career in football.