In the world of soccer, six months is not enough time for a manager to come in, prove their worth, and win something major but Emma Hayes has done exactly that. Ever since taking over the USWNT, she has won an Olympic Gold and also the hearts of soccer fans across the United States. Former USMNT star, Alexi Lalas believes that she deserves way more credit for what she’s done. 

Alexi Lalas who is known for his frank remarks, shared praises for Hayes at Soccerex Miami, and rightfully so! Her current record is 12 wins, 1 draw, and 0 losses ever since she took over as head coach of the USWNT. During their undefeated Olympic campaign, she joined Anson Dorrance as the only head coach in USWNT history to win every match in the first major tournament. 

“Whatever we’re paying her, it’s not enough. She’s doing a great job and she has brought in a bunch of young players too,” said Lalas highlighting what a turnover it has been since their disastrous 2023 World Cup run. Lalas also spoke about how over the years women’s soccer has been improving and it’s only a matter of time before they win another major tournament. 

“When it comes to the women’s game it’s really interesting to see how it’s progressing around the world. We had a head start because we as a country and a culture have legislated for it. Not just soccer but all women’s sports, to give them resources and support and belief and it translated into us dominating the women’s game for a long time.” added Lalas. 

After her 9-year successful stint at Chelsea, she left Stamford Bridge to coach for the Stars and Stripes, a rather risky move, considering the success she had at the West London club. Currently, her USWNT side is preparing for friendlies against England and the Netherlands, and her squad selection has left many intrigued. 

No Triple Espresso, but who else can be playing in the next matches? 

With the famous trio of Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson missing from the teamsheet for upcoming friendlies, Hayes’ decision to drop the stars raised plenty of questions in the soccer community. However, the former Chelsea boss assured that she was prioritizing rest for the players, given the long season they have had. Of the three, Rodman is on the road to winning her second NWSL title in the upcoming finals. 

On the plus side, players like Phallon Tullis-Joyce, Ally Sentnor, and 17-year-old Lily Yohannes have got their call-ups. Come the 2027 World Cup, Emma Hayes will have built a squad with incredible depth, and she is likely to add more trophies to her cabinet. Do you think the 2024 Women’s Coach of the Year is one of the best managers of all time? Comment down below.