The United States women’s national soccer team coach Emma Hayes has waded into the controversy surrounding midfielder Korbin Albert, who faced a barrage of boos from the Wembley Stadium crowd during a recent match against England. The 21-year-old Paris Saint-Germain player sparked outrage in March after sharing an anti-LGBTQ+ post on social media and ‘liking’ a post celebrating an injury to former USA star Megan Rapinoe.
Speaking after the hard-fought 0-0 draw in front of 78,346 spectators, the ex-Chelsea manager offered a measured take on the hostile reception Albert received upon entering the pitch as a second-half substitute. “Of course I understand the booing, everybody is entitled to their opinions on it, without doubt,” Hayes acknowledged, while emphasizing her role is to “produce a football team” and support Albert’s development both on and off the field.
A Rising Star’s Rocky Path
Korbin Albert burst onto the international scene in December 2023, quickly becoming a fixture in the USA lineup. Her tireless work ethic and precise passing helped propel the Stars and Stripes to Olympic gold this summer. However, the rising midfielder’s reputation took a major hit when her controversial social media activity came to light.
In a March Instagram post, Albert issued an apology for her “immature and disrespectful” actions, expressing disappointment in herself for the “hurt” caused to teammates, fans, and the LGBTQ+ community. The mea culpa did little to quell the backlash, with many questioning her sincerity and suitability to represent the diverse USA squad on the global stage.
Rainbow Armbands and Tough Conversations
As part of Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces inclusivity campaign, USA captain Lindsey Horan and England counterpart Leah Williamson donned rainbow armbands for Saturday’s clash. The symbolism was not lost on the Wembley faithful, who made their displeasure with Albert known every time she touched the ball.
Coach Hayes revealed she has engaged Albert in multiple “conversations” to foster the youngster’s growth and self-awareness. “Like I always do, I’ve sat down with her… to make sure that self-development is there,” Hayes noted. However, she was quick to redirect the onus, stating it’s on Albert to address the matter publicly as “there have been several opportunities” to do so.
My job is not to weigh in on the debate. My job is [to be] a football coach and to produce a football team, and Korbin being a player within that.
Emma Hayes, USA Coach
Fans’ Right to Express Disapproval
While stressing her commitment to fostering an “inclusive, respectful and tolerant” team environment, Hayes made clear she “cannot control what happens outside.” She went on to voice her respect for supporters’ right to express their views, even if it means one of her players bears the brunt of their ire.
“I totally appreciate the fans doing that and they’re entitled to,” Hayes affirmed. The seasoned coach seems to grasp that for many, Albert’s social media missteps aren’t so easily forgiven or forgotten, especially given the USA’s status as longtime champions of diversity in the women’s game.
Unfinished Business On and Off the Pitch
As the USA sets its sights on the fast-approaching Women’s World Cup, the hope within the camp will surely be for Korbin Albert to let her play do the talking. The fleet-footed midfielder undoubtedly possesses the tools to be a difference-maker for her country, but regaining the trust and respect of teammates and supporters alike may prove her toughest challenge yet.
Emma Hayes, for her part, walks a delicate tightrope. Nurturing Albert’s on-field growth and personal development while acknowledging valid critiques of her behavior is no simple task. With the eyes of the world upon them, both coach and player face a defining test of leadership, character, and the unifying power of the beautiful game.
