Where other coaches may not be able to assert their intentions of going for a future promise, head coach Emma Hayes of the U.S. Women’s National Team has always made fans optimistic about Lily Yohannes’ potential future. This young midfield player, who has been representing a club in the Netherlands, has been on the radar of U.S. soccer for quite some time. Even while it remains undecided, Hayes is cautious about being overly optimistic.

Recently, Emma Hayes discussed the situation with Yohannes at the press conference, concluding that they need to give this young talent the time before deciding anything. “I think, as I mentioned before, we have to be mindful; she’s a really young player and has been playing her domestic club football in the Netherlands,” Hayes said. “So understandably, she wants to take the time at her age and her stage before she makes an important decision.”

Emma Hayes revealed that there had been talks between Yohannes and the U.S. Soccer Federation ever since the Olympics, leaving the door for the young star open. “But there has been communication post-Olympics between Lily and us at the [U.S. Soccer] Federation,” she shared. “I’m always optimistic, but I don’t like to pressure anybody in this situation. At the moment, I don’t have an update, but I still very much harbor the hopes that Lily will represent the U.S. in the future.”

This is quite promising communication to the fans and to the team as well. This shows that the USWNT is not only interested in Yohannes but also in providing a nurturing and patient atmosphere for the young star while she pens this critical life decision. That communication shows mutual respect and strong efforts to keep Yohannes within the USWNT fold for the long haul. 

The impact Yohannes could have on Emma Hayes’ USWNT

What’s great about Yohannes joining the USWNT is that her experience in the Netherlands has exposed her to a different playing style that is more technical and tactically aware. These surely would add strength to the USWNT’s midfield, thus putting them on an edge in international competitions.

But this decision is not just an immediate contribution. Yohannes could be the backbone of the USWNT’s future and part of the next generation that pushes the program forward in the upcoming years. With the likes of veterans Megan Rapinoe and Julie Ertz transitioning away from international play, an opportunity arises for fresh faces with an opportunity to emerge as leaders.

“No matter what time it takes, it needs to be right for Lily,” Hayes explained. “And when that time’s right, I’m sure I’ll update if I have anything to say on that. For the moment, it’s just we haven’t reached a conclusion to that yet.”

For now, we must allow USWNT fans to wait patiently while Yohannes considers her options. Although Hayes’ optimism is a good omen, it is obvious that this will take as long as it needs to in order for Yohannes to make the right choice for the entirety of her continued career and development.