In a candid revelation, newly appointed United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) head coach Emma Hayes admitted to feeling “unwell” before taking on the prestigious role. The former Chelsea manager, who left the Women’s Super League club in 2024 after an impressive 12-year tenure, opened up about her health struggles and how the USWNT position has helped her rediscover her passion for the beautiful game.
A Turnaround for Hayes and the USWNT
Hayes’ appointment as the USWNT head coach came on the heels of the team’s disappointing exit from the 2023 World Cup in the round of 16. However, under her guidance, the team has bounced back, clinching gold at the 2024 Olympics and undergoing a promising rebuild. For Hayes, the journey has been equally transformative, as she recently received her first Ballon d’Or Coach of the Year award, a testament to her exceptional work with both Chelsea and the USWNT.
Losing the “Mojo” at Chelsea
Speaking at a news conference in a Camden pub, Hayes reflected on her final days at Chelsea, revealing the toll the job had taken on her well-being. “I definitely didn’t feel healthy at the end,” she confessed. “I felt quite unwell at the end of my time at Chelsea, just felt like the stress took a toll on me.”
I didn’t realize how much I’d lost my smile, my joy in that.
Emma Hayes, USWNT Head Coach
Finding Joy in Football Again
However, Hayes’ new role with the USWNT has breathed new life into her career and rekindled her love for the sport. “I feel like I’ve got my mojo back,” she beamed, emphasizing her renewed sense of joy and clarity in her coaching aspirations.
The transition from club to national team management has also brought about positive changes in Hayes’ daily routine. No longer rushing to the training ground, she now enjoys the flexibility to drop her son off at school and prioritize her health and well-being.
I get to create my schedule in and around those things. I don’t sacrifice the things that make me feel healthy.
Emma Hayes, USWNT Head Coach
Looking Ahead: England Friendly at Wembley
With a rejuvenated mindset, Hayes is eagerly anticipating the USWNT’s upcoming friendly against England at Wembley on November 30th. This match will mark the first time Hayes faces the reigning European Champions as the USWNT head coach, adding an extra layer of excitement to the occasion.
As Emma Hayes continues to lead the USWNT through its rebuild, her openness about her past health struggles serves as an inspiring reminder of the importance of prioritizing one’s well-being, even in the face of professional success. With her “mojo” back and a renewed passion for football, Hayes is poised to guide the USWNT to even greater heights in the coming years.
