Gisele Thompson Credits Emma Hayes’ New USWNT Approach for ‘Comfortable’ National Team Debut

“Being on the women’s national team is one of the biggest goals of mine,” stated an ambitious Gisele Thompson after the USWNT returned from their 2024 Paris Olympics triumph, while she herself, in the interim, had secured a third-place finish in the U20 Women’s World Cup. And boy did God finally hear her wish, as the right-back was called to suit up for the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, getting her much-anticipated debut. While her talent and hard work were key in making her dream a reality, Thompson ultimately credits Emma Hayes for having faith in young players like her.

In the SheBelieves Cup opener against Colombia, the Angel City star made her debut off the bench, replacing Jenna Nighswonger in the final quarter of the match. This cameo appearance paved the way for the 19-year-old to earn her first start in the following game against Australia, where she played 77 minutes before being substituted in a 2-1 victory. Meanwhile, she made a full-bench appearance in the final game vs Japan.

However, in the first two fixtures, while it seemed like Gisele looked competitive, it wasn’t the same feeling within the 19-year-old. “I was nervous the whole entire time,” she began on the latest episodes of the RE—INC podcast. Oftentimes, newcomers face tough challenges in adapting to their surroundings and game. However, Gisele feels grateful for having the presence of her elder sister, Alyssa.

It was also a dream come true for both Thompson sisters, who always wanted to play together for their nation—let alone becoming the third pair of sisters in USA’s history to be named in the same roster. “Having Alyssa there made it so much more comfortable. Going into camp, I felt I already knew somebody and it was all of the younger players too, was like such a different group. So I felt it was so much more chill which made me feel like I could do it.“

Of course, how could she forget the very woman who believed in her talent? Without the English tactician, Gisele believes she couldn’t have been more relaxed while playing for the USWNT. “Emma really believed in all of the younger players. So when I went on the field it was like they all have my back, supported. It felt like a lot different than when I was a training player last year,” concluded Gisele.

It’s good to hear that the Angel City star was able to make her debut without any difficulties. Speaking of which, though in our eyes it went just fine, Hayes still had some corrections to suggest for the younger Thompson.

Emma Hayes’ honest opinion on Gisele Thompson’s debut

On one hand, Gisele Thompson’s performance against Australia was a debut that earned Emma Hayes’ approval. The coach commended the teenager for excelling in an area where many wingbacks often struggle—going up against elite wide players like Caitlin Foord. Hayes highlighted that the Matildas veteran is particularly tricky to defend against due to her smart positioning, often lingering on the shoulder of the last defender.

This allows her to set herself up perfectly for diagonal passes into dangerous attacking zones. Fortunately, Gisele passed the test as Hayes praised her for showcasing “tenacity and good aggression in her individual jewels.”

However, Hayes wasn’t entirely satisfied with Thompson’s performance, pointing out a crucial area for improvement. “We can add some value in the defensive department for her, but I think she showed some really good intent going forward. Showed some good link-up with Alyssa [Thompson],” added the 48-year-old tactician, clearly recognizing the strong on-field chemistry between the Thompson sisters.

Their connection seemed almost instinctive, as they consistently looked to pass to each other. This dynamic allowed one of them to hold their position effectively, despite both operating on the same flank. “It’s a really really good debut considering she’s playing [against] probably one of the best wingers in the world in current form [Foord]. Really, really good start for her,” concluded Hayes.

There may be room for improvement. But we reckon that’s something that Emma Hayes will help Gisele Thompson improve with time.