November 15, (THEWILL) – Chelsea Women’s manager, Emma Hayes, has been confirmed as the new head coach of the United States women’s national soccer team. The 47-year-old will remain with the Blues until the end of the 2023/2024 season before taking over the USWNT ahead of the 2024 Olympics.
Hayes replaces Vlatko Andonovski, who departed after a disappointing 2023 Women’s World Cup campaign that saw the USWNT knocked out in the last 16 – their worst ever performance at the tournament.
The Englishwoman has enjoyed huge success during her 11 years with Chelsea, winning six Women’s Super League titles and five FA Cups. Hayes was also named FIFA Women’s Coach of the Year in 2021 and has been awarded an MBE and OBE for her services to football.
“This is a huge honour to be given the opportunity to coach the most incredible team in world football history,” said Hayes. “I’ve dreamed about coaching the USA for a long time so this is a dream come true. I know there is work to do to get this team back to the top but I am ready for the challenge.”
Hayes will be tasked with revitalising the USWNT and returning them to the pinnacle of the women’s game after their World Cup failure. Her pioneering style and winning mentality is expected to reinvigorate the squad ahead of the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
