As Jeff Kassouf of The Equalizer reported earlier this month, the US women’s national team has found its next coach in Emma Hayes. While some logistical questions still remain, here is a quick summary of what we know about the timeline and transition from interim coach Twila Kilgore.
Who is Emma Hayes?
Hayes, 47, was born in London and has experience coaching in both the U.S. and UK. She is currently coaching Chelsea FC in the Women’s Super League, where she has held the position for 11 seasons. She has won six Women’s Super League titles, five Women’s FA Cups, two FA Women’s League Cups and one WSL Spring Series title. She earned the title of Best FIFA Women’s Coach of the Year in 2021 and is a finalist for the 2023 award.
Hayes has worked her way up from coaching at the youth level in the U.S. to hold positions in the USL W-League, NCAA Division I Iona College, the WPS and Women’s Premier League (which was a precursor to the WSL).
How did the USWNT choose Hayes?
U.S. Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker said he compiled a list of diverse candidates who “underwent an intense and thorough interview process which included psychometrics and abstract reasoning tests, in-depth discussions of strategy, coaching philosophy and the current player pool, as well as evaluation on the reactions to pressure, culture-building and interactions with players and staff.”
How will she fit into the USWNT?
Our Blair Newman did a deep dive in her coaching style and proven record of fostering young talent in this recent piece:
When will she join the team?
Hayes will finish the 2023-24 UWSL season with Chelsea and then join the USWNT two months prior to the 2024 Olympics. The U.S. has four matches scheduled in that time — two in June and two in July — to help her adjust.
“This is a unique situation, but the team is in safe hands with Twila,” Crocker said. “Her stewardship will be crucial during this period as we are focused on success at the Olympics. Emma has endorsed Twila, she will be a key part of Emma’s staff when she arrives and moving forward, and we are excited for what’s to come with our USWNT program.”
What will happen to Kilgore?
Kilgore will continue serving as interim head coach and then join Hayes’ staff as an assistant.
How much will Hayes be paid?
Although an official number has not been announced, the USWNT release stated that she “will become the highest-paid women’s soccer coach in the world.”
Sources tell The Equalizer‘s Kassouf that Hayes will be paid over $1 million annually and comparably to U.S. men’s national team coach Gregg Berhalter, who earned over $1,300,000 in base salary last fiscal year.
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