Alex Morgan continues to remain behind the eight ball. Amidst the USWNT’s ongoing preparations for the impending Paris Olympics 2024, they endured a major setback. Star midfielder Catarina Macario was forced to leave the camp after fresh injury concerns. While this reignited the hope of Morgan being called up as a replacement, new coach Emma Hayes again overlooked the USWNT icon and instead invited Emily Sams.

The announcement came just now that Macario won’t be able to play the summer games. Apparently, the Chelsea superstar is struggling with consistent irritation in her right knee. Luckily, aside from the 18-player roster, Hayes had kept four extra alternates- Goalkeeper Jane Campbell, midfielder Hal Hershfelt, midfielder Croix Bethune, and forward Lynn Williams.

With Macario leaving, Williams takes her place and for the vacant alternate, pending IOC, USOPC, and FIFA approval, Hayes called Emily Sams. Interestingly, this is the first time the Orlando Pride defender has received a call-up from the national camp and will travel to France. While it is a moment of joy for Sams, the attention turns to Morgan.

Eyebrows were already raised when the San Diego Wave forward didn’t receive the initial call to catch a plane to France. Matters have now taken a U-turn for the 35-year-old, as Hayes snubbed her, yet again, despite an opportunity opening up. This raises the question of why the former Chelsea manager didn’t call Morgan. However, the explanation became justified by the English tactician.

Emma Hayes stands firm on her Alex Morgan decision!

Initially, when Alex Morgan’s name wasn’t on the USWNT roster, Emma Hayes explained the forward’s snub stating; “It was a tough decision of course – especially considering Alex’s history and record with this team, but I felt I wanted to go in another direction and selected other players.” This was a clear hint her focus remains solely on getting the best out of the next-gen talents.

While this explanation wasn’t enough, the English boss recently expressed her confidence in calling-up players for the summer games: “It’s a balanced roster. I’ve considered all the factors that we’re gonna need throughout the Olympics, and [it’s] one that I’m really happy with.” Such words to the iconic Blues manager making calls for effective players.

Hayes has arrived at the USWNT camp with clear ideologies and her American dream to set an example within the team. Regardless, time will tell if her bet on the fresh legs would prove favorable. For now, Alex Morgan gets no choice, but to accept her rejection even as an alternate player.