After a dramatic World Cup, the USWNT are all in to change their fortunes. The biggest step that US Soccer took was to part ways with coach Vlatko Andonovski. While his departure left a void, it was quickly filled by hiring Chelsea boss Emma Hayes. In fact, her signing has already created history, as she is in for a $1.6 million boost in the women’s soccer universe.

A lot of criticism came knocking at the doors of the USWNT this year. But how has Emma Hayes managed to create such an impact even before managing a single USWNT game?

Emma Hayes’ name is already in the history books of women’s soccer

2023 was one of the unluckiest years in the history of the USWNT. A bitter exit from this year’s World Cup raised many questions on the management. After signing as the new USWNT coach, Emma Hayes has become the highest-paid coach in the history of women’s soccer. Her $1.6 million paycheque, is the same amount as USMNT head coach Gregg Berhalter makes. Perhaps the decision comes after the federation had to face the wrath of USWNT players for equal pay.

Notably, this is a significant rise in the salary of a USWNT coach. Earlier, Vlatko earned $400,000 per year. Hence, this is a 4X increase in the salary of a USWNT coach, and Hayes is the first one to enjoy the financial perk. However, not everyone is familiar with Hayes and her name in the women’s soccer sphere. Until she takes over the new job, let’s dive deeper.

Who is Hayes? And when will she take the reigns at USWNT?

Reportedly, Hayes won’t be joining the USWNT until May. She is set to conclude the 2023–24 Women’s Super League season in England with Chelsea before formally joining the U.S. team, two months ahead of the 2024 Olympics. Twila Kilgore, the interim head coach, will maintain her position until then, transitioning to a full-time role as an assistant coach after Hayes’ arrival.

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Hayes joins U.S. Soccer following an impressive tenure of 11 seasons at Chelsea. Since 2012, she has played a pivotal role in the Blues’ success, helping them win an impressive 14 trophies. This includes six WSL titles, one WSL Spring Series title, five Women’s FA Cups, and two FA Women’s League Cups. Notably, Chelsea reached the UEFA Women’s Champions League Final in 2021 under her guidance. How do you feel about Emma Hayes taking up the vacant USWNT role? Let us know in the comments below.

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