“Work needs to be done,” as this is not just a celebration tour. Mallory Swanson recently emphasized this regarding the upcoming USWNT friendly matches, marking the team’s return after their Olympic gold triumph. Although these games have been commonly referred to as a ‘celebration tour,’ that isn’t entirely accurate. This sentiment has been echoed by captain Lindsey Horan and manager Emma Hayes, who has issued strong reminders to the newcomers on the roster.

The USWNT’s Collective Bargaining Agreement forced the ex-Chelsea boss to include all eligible players from the Olympic team for this week’s friendlies. According to guidelines, these matches—starting with one against Iceland—are meant to serve as a victory tour. Lindsey Horan is eager to commemorate this significant achievement alongside their fans at home.

In a recent conversation, she declared, “Number one, we want to celebrate.” Emphasizing her point further, the 30-year-old said, “We want to celebrate with our fans. We haven’t been back together since the Olympics, so this is an incredible moment for us to be back on home soil and be able to celebrate.”

However, there’s more than just celebration at stake. Consistent with its storied legacy, there are high expectations for The Stars and Stripes. New faces like Emma Sears, Yazmeen Ryan, and Alyssa Malonson have received their first national call-ups from Emma Hayes. Their captain’s message aligns closely with this new chapter.

Lindsey Horan elaborated, “It’s also a new cycle, and we have new players in. My big message at the beginning [of camp] and Emma’s message as well is, these players are here for a reason.” Putting on her serious shoes, she went on to add, “You’re here to make the program better, and we are looking forward to the future.”

The intention is unmistakable. While celebrating is indeed part of these friendlies’ purpose, they must not be taken lightly. Emma Hayes, too, has previously made it known that she doesn’t intend to approach these games like Mauricio Pochettino did in his case.

Emma Hayes refuses to repeat Mauricio Pochettino’s controversial decision in USWNT

Well, if you’re wondering what Mauricio Pochettino’s decisions were, let’s rewind a few days to when the USMNT faced Mexico. This match was significant, as it marked Pochettino’s second game in charge of the national team and, unfortunately, resulted in his first defeat. Notably, he opted not to include Christian Pulisic in this match because of concerns over workload, aiming to rest him and be fully fit for AC Milan.

A similar scenario arises for the USWNT, as just two days after their recent friendly against Argentina starts the final matchday of NWSL’s regular season. However, unlike the USMNT boss’ approach, Emma Hayes has made it clear there will be no resting period for her players.

Highlighting that representing the national team should be cherished, she stated, “So, as far as I’m concerned, this is professional football, and playing club football and international football is part and parcel of what they have to do.” It’s evident that Emma Hayes means business and is not taking any international windows lightly.