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Emma Hayes, the new head coach of the US Women's National Team (USWNT), has warned her squad despite a strong start under her leadership. After nine successful years, Hayes recently left Chelsea and has seen her team win 3-0 and 4-0 in her first two games. However, she remains cautious and emphasizes improving to compete at the highest level.
Hayes spoke to the media about her concerns and expectations for the team. “You cannot compete at the very top level in a transitional game. You just cannot. The top teams in the world will pick us off, and we'll spend the game running. We'll lack control. And when you lack control, you're doing more running. You can't play a consistent team again and again. Why? Because physically, it's going to be so demanding,” Hayes explained.
She praised her team's efforts but stressed the importance of maintaining control during games. “The team understands the demands of the top-level game, and they're applying all those best things. That's why I always say, sometimes it might feel to the public like, ‘I want it to be a bit quicker, I want more of it.' But be careful what you wish for on that front,” she said.
USWNT's focus
Hayes is determined to prepare the USWNT for the most challenging matches against top-tier opponents. “Because when we get into the biggest games against the best opponents, I want to make sure the U.S. are in the best position to control games, and not the other way around,” Hayes added.
She commended her team for their disciplined approach in the recent victories. “So I really want to commend the team for their application of doing that because I thought we were measured in both games for large periods. And where we were not, that's where there's room for growth,” Hayes noted.
The real test for Hayes and the USWNT will come at the Paris Olympics. The team aims to add another prestigious title to their impressive list of achievements. Starting on July 25, the tournament will be a significant challenge and an opportunity for Hayes to demonstrate her leadership and tactical skills on the world stage.
Hayes now faces crucial decisions about the squad selection for the Olympics. With only a month to prepare, she must choose the best players to represent the USWNT in Paris. These decisions will ensure the team is ready to compete at the highest level and achieve its goals.
While the USWNT has started strong under Emma Hayes, the coach remains focused on the need for continuous improvement and control in games. Her emphasis on these aspects is crucial as the team prepares for the Paris Olympics, where they will face some of the toughest competition in women's football. Hayes' leadership and strategic planning will be key to the USWNT's success in the upcoming tournament.
