And just like that, 2024 comes to a close, but this year was undoubtedly a rollercoaster for soccer, especially in the United States. Significant developments unfolded, with some taking fans by surprise and spreading joy across the nation, while others concluded on a more somber note. From the high-profile arrivals of Emma Hayes and Mauricio Pochettino ushering in a new soccer revolution to US icons like Alex Morgan delivering shocking news, join us as we revisit the top 10 moments of the year.

1. Mauricio Pochettino coming to the States!

The US Men’s National Team having an upgrade from Gregg Berhalter to Mauricio Pochettino was perhaps the last thing we would have imagined to happen this year. Many would argue that the USSF should have made such a hiring much earlier after their 2022 FIFA World Cup exit, but just as they say, it’s better late than never.

Since his arrival, the optimism has grown for a much bigger task that the USMNT are bracing themselves for; the 2026 World Cup. As the host nation of this prestigious tournament, they surely would have the eyes of many, so, it’s the least expected of Pochettino to live up to his name and make something magical happen for the Golden Generation.

2. Copa America exit and Gregg Berhalter’s sacking

Fresh off the round of 16 exit from the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the American boys bounced back with a CONCACAF Nations League title the next year. Such was the expectation in the 2024 Copa America—not win but at least do their best. But boy did they suffer a hard knock. An opening win over Bolivia saw them secure two consecutive defeats against Panama and Uruguay, eventually finishing 3rd in Group C and failing to even cross the group stages.

The end result? Intense criticism from the media and the eventual sacking of Gregg Berhalter. While this marks one of the most painful moments in USMNT history, it also stands as a pivotal moment that could have changed the game forever. After all, what better way to embrace a new chapter than by hiring a manager like Pochettino?

3. Emma Hayes appointment

This is also something that we hardly ever imagined to happen. As 2015 and 2019 World Champions, the US Women’s National Team was expected to win its third consecutive Golden Trophy in the 2023 edition. But Valtko Andonovski’s leadership proved fatal as the team suffered a poor exit from the round of 16.

So the USSF really had to find someone who would pick up the American ladies down from the dumps and restart things accordingly. Luckily, they found Emma Hayes. 16 trophies, including 5 WSL titles and 7 FA Cups in over 12 years—the English manager was a serial killer at Chelsea. No wonder it gave confidence to the 4x World Champions and made one of the best decisions ever!

4. 2024 Paris Olympic gold medal

While US Soccer did announce the arrival of Hayes around November 2023, she officially arrived in the States in the summer after ending her final season at Chelsea. She had a little less than two months to prepare for the Paris Olympics. Everyone was skeptical of whether she would be able to handle the transition from domestic to international games while also making the most in the Summer Games.

But securing wins in the six-game seemed a rather piece of cake for Hayes, as she was able to not only help the team win their record 5th gold medal but also managed to reinstall the joyful days.

5. Rise of Triple Espresso

“Say you can’t sleep, baby, I know. That’s that me espresso”—while Sabrina Carpenter might be using caffeine as a metaphor to describe herself in this song, the “Triple Espresso” of the USWNT delivers even more than any cup of coffee ever could. Thanks to Emma Hayes, ardent fans witnessed the creation of a phenomenal attacking trio: Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman, and Mallory Swanson.

This dynamic partnership was instrumental in the USWNT clinching gold, as the trio contributed 10 of the 12 goals scored by the American team across six games in the tournament—a true triple threat brewed to perfection throughout the Summer Games.

6. Alex Morgan and other USWNT legends’ retirement

This year was quite happening for the US Women’s National Team. While many positive developments marked the beginning of a new chapter, some of its stars closed theirs. The biggest shock came with the retirement of Alex Morgan, who was surprisingly not called up by Emma Hayes for the Paris Olympics. Though it wasn’t the rejection that led to her decision, Morgan was also beginning a new journey, announcing her pregnancy with her second child.

In addition to Morgan, the iconic defender duo of Becky Sauerbrunn and Kelley O’Hara hung up their boots this year. Furthermore, following suit with retirement but only on the international front, was Alyssa Naeher, who was one of the lucky ones to be called up by Hayes for the Summer Games, closing her national team chapter with a gold medal.

7. New NWSL-CBA agreement

Coming to the domestic front, another game-changing moment was witnessed as NWSL struck a new Collective Bargain Agreement deal earlier this year. The latest CBA agreement introduces significant changes aimed at transforming the league into a more player-focused system, aligned with FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players. One major highlight is the elimination of the draft system, granting players greater autonomy in choosing where they want to play.

Under this new structure, players can sign contracts with clubs of their choice, and upon contract expiration, they will enter free agency. Additionally, the agreement sets ambitious financial targets, with the base salary cap projected to reach approximately $5.1 million and minimum salaries increasing to $82,500 by 2030. The league will also provide enhanced financial support, ensuring a system that mirrors the European soccer model and prioritizes the well-being and career choices of players.

8. A rebirth of Christian Pulisic at AC Milan

All hope was lost on Christian Pulisic’s domestic front when he was sold by Chelsea to AC Milan last season. Many were sad to see that things didn’t work out for the American winger in the best league of the world and doubted if it would change things for him in Italy. But boy was Pulisic ready to turn the tables; correction, he did more than that.

This season, Mr. Captain America has taken his nickname too seriously, as he has become one of the most crucial chess pieces for the Rossoneri. Notching 8 goals and 6 assists in 20 appearances across all competitions, it’s more than what Pulisic has to offer right now with his remarkable performances as well.

9. MLS rise continues under Lionel Messi

Call Lionel Messi a lucky charm because that’s exactly what the MLS needed to get the boost they never could imagine. It all started with Inter Miami bringing him last summer, where he instantly made an impact. Such was the case even this year, as he managed to keep the popularity momentum off the charts. 

Be it record-breaking match attendances or selling out his own jersey, the Argentinian icon has brought a soccer revolution like never before. His arrival also saw other renowned names arrive in the States to further elevate the status of the league.

10. LA Galaxy find their way back to the top

Everyone had their money on Inter Miami to reach the MLS Cup finals and win it, but to everyone’s surprise, it was the LA Galaxy who were the impressive side. Finishing second in the Western Conference, Greg Vanney’s side somehow made their way into the finals and secured the MLS Championship, defeating the NY Red Bulls 2-1.

What was your favorite moment of US Soccer’s top moments of 2024? Let us know in the comments.