It seems Emma Hayes has put Caffeine on the back burner in her diet. Well, not quite – but everyone’s beloved “Triple Espresso,” which includes Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson, is notably absent from the USWNT’s upcoming friendly roster. Before you direct your ire towards the ex-Chelsea boss for this choice, let’s delve into the rationale behind it.

The upcoming friendly camp for the USWNT has generated considerable excitement as they are scheduled to compete against both the Netherlands and England. Adding to the allure of these matches is the fact that their game against England will be held at the iconic Wembley Stadium. In anticipation of these fixtures comes an unexpected roster announcement.

In a surprising move, Emma Hayes has decided to exclude not one or two but all three members of the “Triple Espresso.” The stated reason for their omission? Well, the word being thrown around is “nagging injuries.” According to the US Soccer Federation, “All are dealing with nagging injuries that need rest after a long year representing club and country,”

While none of these players have sustained new injuries recently, it appears that past issues are still influencing their performance levels. For instance, Trinity Rodman suffered a serious back injury in September that left her confined to a wheelchair mid-match. Although she has returned to play for the Washington Spirit since then, she was also omitted from the previous USWNT camp.

Similarly unfortunate is Sophia Smith. Just days following Rodman’s setback, she encountered an ankle injury herself. Additionally, there’s Mallory Swanson who made her comeback earlier this year after recovering from a significant leg injury that kept her off the field for an entire year.

The absence of these three stars, who we must remember were all ranked among this year’s top 10 Ballon d’Or nominees—certainly poses a challenge for Emma Hayes and the USWNT as they prepare for these encounters. With that in mind let’s take a look at which players have made it onto this surprising roster list.

How is USWNT looking to shape Triple Espresso’s absence?

Though not a complete overhaul, the USWNT is sticking to its established and reliable strategy. Consequently, 15 out of the 22 athletes who took part in the Paris Olympics have been named for the upcoming friendly matches. With Rodman, Smith, and Swanson unavailable, players stepping up for attacking duties include Yazmeen Ryan, Emma Sears, Ally Sentnor, Jaedyn Shaw, Alyssa Thompson, and Lynn Williams.

The rest of the lineup remains largely consistent with key figures like Alyssa Naeher, Lindsey Horan, and Rose Lavelle continuing as central members of this squad. In terms of newcomers to the team, two uncapped players have garnered their first call-up. Phallon Tullis-Joyce and Ally Sentnor are set to make their debut under Emma Hayes’ direction.

Despite significant absences within the roster, there’s no lack of enthusiasm surrounding Emma Hayes and the USWNT. It will be intriguing to see how this group performs in what promises to be a challenging series in Europe.