Emma Hayes had less than two months to prepare for the 2024 Paris Olympics, but time was no setback as her side clinched gold in an undefeated campaign. However, her counterpart, Mauricio Pochettino hasn’t attracted praise from the critics, with many questioning just how far the USMNT will go. Hayes believes the rich history of the USWNT gives them the edge over the men’s team. 

The pressure now rests on Pochettino to deliver, especially with Hayes’ side already adding a major accolade to their name. Historically the USWNT has lifted the World Cup on 4 occasions while in contrast, the men’s team has not advanced beyond the Round of 16 since 2002. It is this history, that positions Hayes’ side as favorites to claim the next World Cup. 

Speaking on the latest episode of ‘It’s Called Soccer’, the former Chelsea Boss highlighted that the USWNT sets a higher standard, as the national team is the pinnacle of soccer in the United States, even though the NWSL has been improving over the years. “I think replicating that on the men’s side isn’t easy when there might have been more opportunities for men to go and be professional than there were (for) women,” said Hayes. 

“The iconic teams, whether it’s in 96’ or 99’, as you know with women’s sport in the US, that equality and that title gave so many girls and women role models, and so it gave us a better chance to keep replication the success in a country that size” added Hayes, who believes Pochettino’s current squad is capable of a similar feat. 

Speaking of opportunities, Pochettino recently stated that MLS players will have an equal chance of representing the USMNT as their European-based counterparts. This remark sparked debate with many questioning the MLS standards, with Pochettino believing the league is very physical and has been improving. However, there’s another league predominantly composed of homegrown talent for the Stars and Stripes. 

Is the NWSL better than the MLS?

During the USWNT’s 1-0 victory over Brazil in the Olympic final, the majority of players in the starting XI spend their club careers competing in the NWSL. While in the current USMNT roster, there are only 4 players from the MLS, with Tim Ream being the only one to get some playing time. Before Pochettino took charge, Gregg Berhalter’s squad for the 2024 Copa America saw MLS players receive 0 playing time. 

In fact, many home-grown players aspire to kickstart their careers across the pond. A prime example would be Christian Pulisic, who is currently shining for the Argentine manager and began his career at Borussia Dortmund. With Megan Rapinoe being the only American to win the Ballon d’Or Féminin, are the questions justified?

Pochettino’s side is expected to win the upcoming Nations League and hopefully make it past the cursed round of 16 during the 2026 World Cup. As for Emma Hayes, she is preparing for a reunion at Wembley, the stadium that has hosted many of her trophies, during her stint at Chelsea. With North America set to host the Men’s World Cup, there will be a million eyes watching the men in red, blue, and white.