“New Identity, New History, New Heights.” For those unaware, this is the new slogan for the USWNT, as it marks the inception of a new era for the 4x World Champions under Emma Hayes. After a disappointing few years, the American ladies are finally in the transition phase they had been looking for. For Hayes, however, the vision extends even further—she wants the WNT to start creating its ‘own narrative.’

Preparations for the upcoming Paris Olympics look to be in full swing for the US Women’s National Team, especially on the mentality front. Little did Hayes reveal what has been going on within the team by justifying the new slogan.

In ‘The Women’s Game’ live podcast hosted by Sam Mewis, Hayes said, “I think that’s [identity] something we’ve been shaping internally. When it comes to creating new history, I want to be in a position with this team where we’re talking about this team and that’s not to negate anything that’s done previously but we have to forge our own path.”

The former Chelsea boss urged her side to create an identity that works out for this new generation of WNT. While acknowledging how the women’s game has changed in 10 years, she added, “We’re playing incredible teams that have tactically, technically, physically evolved, where there’s parity. There’s no point talking about the past in isolation.”

As for the new heights part, Hayes explained, “Who wants to f**king do the same thing over and over again. Lad, let’s start creating our own narrative.”

Clearly, Hayes wants the USWNT to start aiming for greatness, as she knows how other sides can prove difficult to beat. And what better way to test the waters than the Olympics? It is something she finds more challenging than the World Cup!

Emma Hayes admits Olympics can be ‘harder’ for the USWNT ahead of Paris Games 2024

In a similar discussion, Sam Mewis questioned the iconic blues boss about whether, given that the soccer part of the Olympics is quite small, it would make things ‘challenging or unpredictable’ for the USWNT. Interestingly, Emma Hayes responded, “Yes, I would say so. Harder because of those few teams.” Notably, only 12 teams are contesting in this year’s Summer Games. Hence, this makes a ‘group of death’ for all the teams.

Remarkably, the USWNT is placed in Group B alongside Zambia, Germany, and Australia, and each side can present a significant challenge to Hayes’ team. Yet, that shouldn’t stop the players from implementing their new slogan on the pitch and achieving the results they are aiming for. Regardless, let’s see if the USWNT can end their 12-year exile, having last won the gold in 2012.