Emma Hayes: USWNT announces Chelsea Women manager as world's highest-paid female coach
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The US Women's National Soccer Team recently announced Emma Hayes as its new head coach. She will succeed Vlatko Andonovski, who stepped down following the team's early exit from the World Cup.
Hayes, currently leading Chelsea FC Women for the 11th season in the 2023-24 Women's Super League, will join the USWNT after the league's conclusion.
Interim head coach Twila Kilgore to continue until Hayes takes over
During the transition, Twila Kilgore acted as the interim head coach and will continue until Hayes concludes her tenure at Chelsea. Subsequently, Kilgore will join Hayes' coaching staff as an assistant.
When she officially joins two months before the 2024 Olympics, Hayes "will become the highest-paid women's soccer coach in the world," according to US Soccer.
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Though the financial details of her contract remain undisclosed, sources suggest her salary will nearly match the earnings of US Men's National Soccer Team coach Gregg Berhalter, who currently makes approximately $1.6 million, according to People.
Expressing her gratitude, Hayes conveyed her excitement about the new role and called it a "huge honor" in a statement.
"The feelings and connection I have for this team and for this country run deep. I’ve dreamed about coaching the USA for a long time so to get this opportunity is a dream come true. I know there is work to do to achieve our goals of winning consistently at the highest levels," Hayes' statement added.
Hayes' track record raises expectations sky-high
Hayes boasts an impressive track record, including numerous titles like six Women's Super League championships, one WSL Spring Series title, five Women's FA Cups, and two FA Women's League Cups.
Recognizing her accomplishments, the US Soccer Federation hailed her as a "proven winner" with an illustrious managerial career, highlighting her imminent leadership on the USWNT touchline.
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US Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker finalized the decision to appoint Hayes after a meticulous selection process involving rigorous interviews, psychometric assessments, and strategic discussions.
Crocker said in a statement that Hayes' "passion for the game, her coaching acumen, her ability to galvanize players and staff, her dedication to continue to evolve as a coach, and her qualities as a person" made her "stand out."
Hayes' appointment heralds a new chapter for the USWNT, with expectations high for her leadership, tactical prowess, and ability to guide the team to further international success.
