The US Women’s National Team (USWNT) is gearing up for a rebuild as they prepare for the 2024 Olympics. After their disappointing performance in the 2019 Women’s World Cup, the team is looking to bring in fresh faces and new ideas under the leadership of Emma Hayes, who will take charge after completing her season with Chelsea.
The player pool has already been expanded, thanks to interim head coach Twila Kilgore, who introduced emerging talents in six games last fall. Among the promising newcomers are Mia Fishel and Jaedyn Shaw, who could help revitalize the team’s attacking flair. Hayes will have a mix of experienced veterans and new talents at her disposal.
One key player to watch is Mallory Swanson, who was expected to lead the team’s attacking efforts in the World Cup but suffered a knee injury before the tournament. Swanson is set to make a comeback this year, and her return could greatly benefit the USWNT, provided she regains her pre-injury form.
The upcoming Olympics will serve as a testing ground for the new-look USWNT. While the team is still in the early stages of their rebuild, they have the opportunity to deliver strong results in Paris, especially considering the relatively weaker opposition compared to the World Cup.
The USWNT’s player pool has traditionally consisted mostly of National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) players. However, there is a growing trend of players seeking opportunities abroad, such as Lindsey Horan, Mia Fishel, Catarina Macario, and Korbin Albert. Emma Hayes has emphasized the need for tactical diversity and may consider players from different leagues for the national team.
As the rebuild progresses, Hayes will focus on restoring the team’s attacking dominance. Young talents like Sophia Smith and Trinity Rodman are expected to play a significant role, while the future of veteran Alex Morgan as a center forward remains uncertain.
In conclusion, the USWNT is embarking on a rebuild ahead of the 2024 Olympics, aiming to bring in fresh faces and revitalize their attacking prowess. With Emma Hayes at the helm, the team will have the opportunity to test their new lineup and tactics in Paris.