Chelsea Women ban autographs and selfies

Chelsea players will stop signing autographs and having photographs taken with fans before and after matches because of the lack of security for both players and fans. Increased crowds at football grounds have led to overcrowding and safety issues for both sides, leading the English club to decide to suspend these activities.

In addition, the club also prevents the players from receiving insults when they do not stop to meet the fans. To alleviate this lack of contact with the fans, Chelsea is committed to organising more events with the players outside of matches.

"There have been occasions when there have been fears for the safety of fans and players due to the number of people asking for autographs and selfies before and after games. We understand that there may be people disappointed with this change, but match days have become unsafe inside and outside the stadiums and players are receiving unnecessary insults if they do not stop," the club said in a statement.

Chelsea's main supporters' group said it was a “tough” but “essential” measure. Chelsea play most matches at the 5,000-capacity Kingsmeadow ground, although they also play several games a season at Stamford Bridge.