Emma Hayes has been named the head coach of the U.S. women’s soccer team. The search for a new coach began following the resignation of former head coach Vlatko Andonovski in August after the team’s round of 16 exit in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Hayes will lead the team to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and beyond.
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Emma Hayes’ to-do list includes the following priorities:
Communicate the vision
Following Andonovski’s resignation, U.S. sporting director Matt Crocker emphasized the importance of strong communication skills in the next head coach. Hayes is known for her ability to connect with her players and help them understand their roles. She has experience in managing rosters with big talents and personalities, which will be valuable at the national team level where most coaches settle on ideal starting lineups for international tournaments.
Reevaluate the player pool
While Hayes is capable of rotating players, major changes to the player pool are not likely to happen in the short time between a World Cup and Olympics. Newer faces may join the team in the future, but the current pool of players are likely to be regular features over the next eight months.
Hayes’ plans will need to include potential future players, and her ability to scout and develop new talent will be an asset in her new role.
Several players, including Mia Fishel and Catarina Macario, who are part of Hayes’ Chelsea squad, may have roles that need to be evaluated as the Olympics get closer.
Get into an actual international window
Hayes will join the squad after Chelsea’s 2023-24 season in the WSL, allowing her to participate in her first set of friendlies on the USWNT sideline in June. Interim coach Twila Kilgore will stay on with the team through Hayes’ arrival and will later join Hayes’ staff as a full-time assistant.
The coordination of camps, game planning, and player training programs ahead of the Olympics will require meticulous planning and complete buy-in from players and staff. Hayes’ limited availability presents a unique set of circumstances for the national team ahead of a major international tournament.
