As the old saying goes, you can’t make an omelet without breaking a few eggs. Change often brings discomfort, and Emma Hayes understands this well. She surprised the soccer community by announcing her 24-player roster for the final friendlies of the year against the Netherlands and England. The roster, which does not include star forwards Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson, and Trinity Rodman, clearly reflects Hayes’ forward-thinking strategy. For fans eager to see their favorite players, Hayes’ choices might feel like a tough pill to swallow. However, for Hayes, the focus is on long-term success rather than immediate rewards.

Hayes is not looking for short-term victories in these friendlies. Her sights are set firmly on the 2027 World Cup. “We’re in a different stage, you know. I’m not preparing for Euros next summer, like England and (the) Netherlands are now,” Hayes stated. “I’m preparing to qualify for a World Cup in 2027, so I need to do this.” The exclusion of the Olympic star trio highlights Hayes’ commitment to rest and recovery, especially for players who have faced a demanding year of both domestic and international soccer games.

Inevitably, the spotlight is on Hayes’ decisions. Critics may question her choice to rest the nation’s star forwards or to take risks with less experienced players against strong European teams. But Hayes has her reasons, rooted in her experience: “We’re not just planning for a game,” she said. “We’re planning for years.”

The roster features a mix of veterans like Alyssa Naeher and Lindsey Horan alongside emerging talents such as Eva Gaetino and Emma Sears. This combination of experience and new talent indicates a transitional phase for the USWNT. By experimenting now, Hayes aims to lay a strong foundation for the team’s future endeavors.

Sarina Wiegman names dynamic England squad for friendlies

Sarina Wiegman has also announced a revamped 24-player England squad in preparation for the final friendlies of the year against the USWNT and Switzerland, combining experienced players with promising newcomers. With several regulars out due to injuries, Wiegman took the chance to introduce fresh talent into the Lionesses’ lineup, indicating a bold strategy for squad depth and experimentation.

The focus is on Manchester City’s Laura Blindkilde Brown and Leicester City’s Ruby Mace, both 21, who are receiving their first senior call-ups. Also making her debut at 29 is Orlando Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse. These choices reflect Wiegman’s dedication to nurturing emerging talent while also valuing experience where it matters most.

Defensive strength sees a notable enhancement as Manchester United’s Gabby George returns after a year-long recovery from an ACL injury. Her teammate Millie Turner also reenters the squad, bolstering the defense. However, Arsenal defender Lotte Wubben-Moy is left out, as Wiegman Key players Lauren Hemp, Ella Toone, Lauren James, and Niamh Charles are notably missing due to injuries. Hemp’s knee surgery and James’ ongoing recovery from a calf issue create a gap in creativity, but Manchester City winger Chloe Kelly keeps her place despite limited appearances this season.