Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones and reflect on the year while indulging in some delicious food. Instead of spending their time with loved ones, the USWNT is currently overseas preparing for their friendly against England, but the head coach, Emma Hayes, made sure that her players wouldn’t feel homesick. So when the draw was announced, the gaffer had already made her plans. 

Hayes, a London native, is facing her home country for the first time as coach of the USWNT. So for the team that secured gold at the Paris Olympics 2024, Hayes went above and beyond to plan a special Thanksgiving meal for the team. In a recent interview with ESPN, USWNT chef Brandon Medley revealed how the ever-involved Hayes made sure to do justice for the seasonal holiday. 

“This one, I think it was really important for her because I think she knew how big of a sacrifice it was for the players, She was really keen on reaching out to them [the players] herself … and was able to get certain dishes. So she sent us about eight side dishes, and that was really her big thing,” said Medley, emphasizing how the ex-Chelsea boss knew what her players liked. 

Hayes also had a special reunion of her own during the team’s time in London. She chose to hold the pre-match press conference at The World’s End pub on Camden High Street, a place that holds significant meaning for her. It was a spot she frequented in her younger days and was seen pouring pints for everyone toward the end of the conference. 

And that’s not the only sentimental value that holds dear for Hayes. Her USWNT side will be facing the Three Lionesses at Wembley, the stadium that once hosted several of Hayes’ trophies during her 12-year stint at Stamford Bridge. While history may favor the hosts with England’s strong record at Wembley, Hayes could guide the Stars and Stripes to a surprise result. 

“Never seen a coach as intuitive”, says Medley on Emma Hayes

The team chef was full of praise for Hayes, highlighting how her involvement in everything makes a big difference to the team. “I’ve worked in sports for a few years now. I’ve never seen a coach as intuitive as she is in each department,” said the chef. And rightfully so, as it’s these small details that have a larger impact down the line. 

Speaking of meals, Hayes will not be having sips of ‘triple espresso’ for the friendly, as she has opted to rest Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson, and Trinity Rodman, considering the long season they have had. It will be truly a full-circle moment for Hayes as ‘God Save the King’ plays at Wembley, but this time she will be donning red, blue, and white.