Page 84 - Soccer360 Issue 104

WOMENS SOCCER
NEW ERA
EMMA HAYES, WAS RECENTLY APPOINTED
AS THE HEAD COACH OF THE U.S. WOMEN’S NATIONAL TEAM. FACING A SUBSTANTIAL CHALLENGE IN REJUVENATING A SQUAD THAT ENDURED ITS WORST FINISH IN THE 2023 WOMEN’S WORLD CUP AND UNDERGOING A PERIOD OF TRANSITION WITH RETIREMENTS.
HAYES
Emma Hayes, recently appointed as the head coach of the U.S. womens national team, faces a substantial challenge in rejuvenating a squad that endured its worst finish in the 2023 Women’s World
Cup and is undergoing a period of transition with retirements. Hayes, who won’t officially join the team until May due to her contractual obligations with Chelsea, brings a wealth of experience and success from her tenure at the English club.
While her focus appears to be on long-term goals, with an emphasis on preparing for the 2027 World Cup rather than the 2024 Paris Olympics, Hayes strategic approach includes optimizing the team style of play, growing the talent pool, and fostering locker room harmony.
Optimizing the style of play is crucial, considering her predecessor & rigid adherence to certain formations. Hayes, known for flexibility during her time at Chelsea, will need to adapt to the evolving roster, providing opportunities for young players and introducing new tactical variations. Growing the talent pool is another priority, building on the
Jaedyn Shaw
82 SOCCER360