The NWSL took possibly the most innovative measures in soccer. On the other hand, USWNT along with Brazil’s men’s team have been the only two nations to win five World Cups. These are just a few signs of how women’s soccer has established itself as one of the most prominent forces in the sporting world. While soccer is bent on improving and closing the gap between men’s and women’s games, where do we stand now? Yet, the beautiful game has not reached a stage where women can significantly contribute to men’s success Emma Hayes feels.

Speaking in her latest interview with talkSPORT, Hayes was asked if she would move to men’s soccer after all her accomplishments. “I’ve never said that I wanted to be that person,” denying any such plans.

But more importantly, irrespective of her interests, she said, “What I’ve always said is that I can’t quite get my head around the fact that women have never been given that opportunity.”

The bewilderment is understandable considering the number of male coaches who manage women’s teams.

Hayes further said, “But I’m almost always astonished that I’m the person who’s asked that question, instead of why aren’t you asking owners on a more regular basis? And people who are on boards or those that control the game, why that isn’t the case?” calling for more work on the field.

Currently, there are just a handful of lady managers. Hannah Dingley is the most famous, but, she still takes care of the academy of Forest Green Rovers. A few years ago, the French team Clermont Foot appointed two women managers. Helena Costa and Corinne Diacre joined in consecutive spells to handle their first team. However, instances of lady coaches in top-flight soccer managing national teams or even Division One teams are rare or even none.

Hence, Hayes was disappointed and expressed that the onus was on the authorities to bridge the gap.

Emma Hayes slams men’s soccer for falling behind

The former Chelsea manager has set a new standard for coaches in soccer. She secured an equal-pay contract from the USWNT in a record deal. However, money isn’t the only issue. Emma Hayes feels the men’s team should already have had enough women coaches by now. Citing other roles for women like doctor, lawyer, and banker, she pointed out the lack of female leaders helping the men’s game.

On the other hand, the 47-year-old had earlier rejected a talk about her joining AFC Wimbledon. She displayed her prowess during her spell, with Chelsea winning 16 trophies in 12 years. As one of the most successful managers in the past, she was confident that her accolades could fit her into a top-flight men’s team.

But it’s not just about her as she expects a systemic change offering better collaborations. Hence, while the fight continues, the awareness shouldn’t stop, either.