One of the new USWNT stars recently spoke about the positive impact Emma Hayes has had on the USWNT since joining the team. The former Chelsea coach attained immediate success with her new team as they clinched the gold medal in the Olympics. Typically, when a new coach comes in, a flurry of changes unfolds as the coach looks to make their mark and implement their identity. However, Hayes has managed to hold on to the well-established traditions of the USWNT while still introducing a new tactical approach that enhances competitiveness, according to Girma.

Girma‘s comments point to Hayes‘ identification of what makes the USWNT great, a fierce commitment to winning, unity, and a never-say-die attitude. The key to success for Hayes is the idea that it is not individual talent alone that makes them successful.

Girma’s comments display a balance Hayes has struck by honoring the legacy of USWNT while adjusting the team to modern styles of play. “She came in very quickly and set [things].” For a team as decorated as the USWNT, with a reputation built on resilience and excellence, Hayes’ approach demonstrates her understanding of the foundational values that make this team one of the most respected in women’s soccer. Girma’s praise shines a light on Emma Hayes’ blend of respect for tradition with a vision for the future.

The USWNT is famous for its dedication, discipline, and toughness. Previous players instilled these values. Girma and her teammates cherish this legacy. She says the team’s “core and mentality” make it unique. These values are passed down, ensuring the team stays at the top for decades.

But what exactly is the tactical vision implemented by Hayes that has recorded success with the USWNT?

Emma Hayes’ key to success

Girma reflected on Emma Hayes‘s approach and said the coach emphasized the importance of holding onto what made the USWNT great while also growing in other ways. “It was leaning in and keeping hold of what makes us great and then also developing, tactically, and our game in a different way,” Girma said. Her approach transcends that of trying merely to safeguard the core values of the team. She‘s creating a new way to work around the rapidly changing nature of this playing field that global women‘s football plays on.

According to Girma, Emma Hayes’s clear communication and hands-on guidance have been key factors in making players feel comfortable with the changes. “She really came in and was like, ‘We’re going to hold on to this, and we’re also going to grow in this way,” Girma explained.

This strategic approach is important because the game is becoming more competitive on the world stage. The USWNT has raised the bar, but the rest of the world is catching up quickly with modern training methods and tactical systems that challenge the game. Emma Hayes realizes that for the USWNT to stay at the top of the game, they need to evolve  and develop a more advanced style of play that allows for tactical fluidity and technical precision. Suffice to say that Hayes has brought forward development without compromising the essence of the team.

As Emma Hayes settles into her position, her influence is already visible. The USWNT is embracing the tactical innovations she brings with the qualities that have long defined the team. Girma‘s comments are a testament to the respect and admiration Hayes has earned from her players in such a short time. She braids the traditional with a tactical evolution together and brings this team to unprecedented heights. Girma‘s praise suggests the players are right with her.