In a monumental move to rejuvenate the United States women’s national soccer team after a disappointing Women’s World Cup campaign, long-time Chelsea manager Emma Hayes has been named as the head coach. Hayes, a 47-year-old London native, boasts an impressive coaching record, guiding Chelsea to 13 major trophies during her 11-season tenure with the Women’s Super League club.
The deal, reportedly extending through at least 2027, positions Hayes as the highest-paid women’s soccer coach globally, according to U.S. Soccer’s announcement on Tuesday. The appointment follows the departure of Vlatko Andonovski, who stepped down after the U.S. team’s unexpected loss to Sweden in the 2023 Women’s World Cup last 16. This marked the team’s first finish outside the top three in World Cup history, despite owning a record four titles.
Hayes, expressing her excitement in the statement, said, “This is a huge honor to be given the opportunity to coach the most incredible team in world football history. I’ve dreamed about coaching the USA for a long time, so to get this opportunity is a dream come true.”
Carli Lloyd, a former U.S. star and two-time Olympic gold medallist, praised the move on social media, calling it a “Terrific hire!” and highlighting Hayes’ proven success on the club side.
Chelsea had announced on November 4th that Hayes would be leaving her position at the end of the Women’s Super League season in May to explore new opportunities. Twila Kilgore, currently serving as the U.S. interim boss, will transition to a full-time assistant coach on Hayes’ staff.
Hayes, whose successful tenure at Chelsea includes six WSL titles, five FA Cup victories, and multiple domestic trebles, will face the challenge of rebuilding the U.S. team. With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, Hayes aims to lead the U.S. to their fifth Games gold medal, following a bronze finish at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone praised Hayes, stating, “Emma is a fantastic leader and world-class coach who sets high standards for herself and for everyone around her.” The tight turnaround for Hayes involves getting acquainted with the national team squad before the Olympics, with four matches expected on the U.S. bench in June and July.
Hayes, a vocal advocate for women’s soccer, has not only achieved remarkable success on the field but has also been recognized for her contributions off the pitch. Chelsea co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley lauded her impact, stating, “Emma has been one of the biggest drivers of change in women’s football. Her achievements at Chelsea are unrivaled and will live in the club’s history forever.”
The U.S. team, undergoing a rebuilding phase, looks to Hayes to bring fresh energy and strategic prowess to reclaim their dominance on the international stage.
