Has representing both domestic and international teams become a burden for soccer players? Mauricio Pochettino has faced ongoing scrutiny for his decision to allow a few of his star players to leave the USMNT camp before it officially ended. Since then, the Argentinian coach has been at the center of headlines, with many criticizing his choice. But if Emma Hayes were given the same option, would she take it?

Spoiler alert: no, she won’t. But how did she come to this conclusion? Well, the USWNT boss, who is reuniting with the American players ahead of this month’s double clashes against Iceland, followed by another match against Argentina, has called up a solid 24-player roster despite the NWSL playoffs being just around the corner. The same applies to players competing in Europe, not just in their domestic leagues but also in the prestigious UEFA Women’s Champions League.

Regardless of the situation, resting players is not something she would consider. “I think we have to go case by case. I think every player could create an argument for only having a couple of weeks rest post-Olympics,” began Hayes while speaking to renowned Forbes writer Asif Burhan.

“The FIFA windows have been long-established over a long period of time so every league has been aware of this window. I know how to manage players. We have 26 players so that we’re not in a position to play any player for more than two games, which is what my objective is,” added the 47-year-old, acknowledging the very long tradition of the beautiful game and insisting that it’s a player’s moral responsibility to balance both the weights.  

Hayes emphasized that players should feel grateful for the chance to represent their national team, noting that it is a significant honor. She suggested that players would certainly “hate the thought” of missing the opportunity to play for their country; they would strongly dislike the idea. “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,” concluded Hayes.

Indeed, this is quite a strong take from Hayes, unlike what her fellow counterpart Mauricio Pochettino did. However, the USMNT manager isn’t alone in sending the likes of Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Marlon Fossey, Ricardo Pepi, and Zack Steffen back home!

Mauricio Pochettino is not alone, as Emma Hayes’ rival does the same!

Well, in another Poch-type situation, Spain’s Women’s National Team head coach Montse Tomé didn’t call up star player Aitana Bonmatí for this month’s friendlies against Canada on October 26, followed by Italy on October 29. Tome’s reason, you ask? “Aitana needs to rest,” said the La Roja boss.

“The national team has always looked after the health of the players. I know that all the work we do as a coaching staff with exhaustive monitoring in all the leagues, trying to bring in those who are in the best shape at that moment and those who can help us the most, with our criteria,” added Tome.

This time, we vocally saw the Spanish ladies’ manager defend the absence of Aitana Bonmatí, considering she has the backing of Spain’s Women’s National Team. However, exceptions do exist in soccer and Mauricio Pochettino’s case might be different after we heard Emma Hayes speak her mind.