England gave birth to some iconic names in soccer and Emma Hayes proudly depicts this banner. The British tactician’s domestic achievements on her home soil with Chelsea stand as one of the biggest testaments. However, during her teenage days, you would be surprised to know that rather than her own beloved nation, it was the United States that ‘opened doors’ to her remarkable coaching career.

Now look today; since occupying the USWNT’s managerial position, she has taken her baby steps quite well, leading the ladies to their fifth historic gold in the Paris Olympics 2024. Of course, it’s a remarkable milestone, which has priceless value in Hayes’ career. But it’s beyond the achievement that sees the Eagles have a special place in the 47-year-old’s heart. “America means more to me than most people realize,” she said in an interview, as compiled by Rachel Bachman on X.

The London-born manager shed light that while everyone was in awe of the game on the men’s side, the women’s side was barely asked by Brits, forcing Hayes to start living the American dream quite early. “I was a 20-year-old and had come from a pretty stuffy society that didn’t embrace the women’s game, or women in football, and I went to America, and they looked after me, and they nurtured me and they opened doors for me and they gave me opportunities that England never ever gave me. And I’m just so happy, so happy, to repay that faith in me,” she added.

That explains why Hayes didn’t hesitate in taking the USWNT job. Deep down, the English manager knew she had a responsibility on her shoulders to reciprocate all of what the American soil gave to her. Rest, as everyone is aware, it turned out pretty well for the iconic Blues coach.

Emma Hayes was the best thing that happened to the USWNT!

“It was domestic soccer, can she do it on the international scene?” was the question that ran through the minds of many when Emma Hayes arrived. However, today, there’s more than a repayment that the former Arsenal assistant coach has done for America. Just a few months ago, the 4x World Champions were down in the dumps over their poor 2023 FIFA World Cup run.

Since then, a shadow of doubt had been cast upon Team USA. But thanks to their recent gold medal victory, the USWNT has successfully risen from the ashes to rule the women’s soccer world again. The slogan “New Identity, New History, New Heights” perfectly describes what Emma Hayes wants to implement as the manager of the US Women’s National Team.

No one should be surprised to hear that more greatness is yet to be seen from this new team under the English coach. This is just the beginning of a new age and Hayes has all the faith of the American fans once again, just like when she arrived more than two decades ago.