Emma Hayes to Depart USWNT and Return to Chelsea at End of Season
Emma Hayes, the head coach of the United States Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT), has announced that she will be stepping down from her role at the end of the current season. The announcement comes after months of speculation regarding her future with the team. Hayes, who took over as the USWNT head coach in 2023, will return to her long-time position as head coach of Chelsea Women’s Football Club, where she has enjoyed significant success.
Hayes, 47, has been a highly respected figure in women’s soccer, both in the U.S. and internationally. During her brief tenure with the USWNT, she oversaw key changes, including the implementation of new strategies and approaches. However, her decision to return to Chelsea reflects her continued commitment to the club, where she has won multiple Women’s Super League (WSL) titles and reached the final of the UEFA Women’s Champions League on multiple occasions.
“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to have worked with some of the best players in the world at the USWNT,” Hayes said in a statement. “It has been an honor to coach such a talented group, but my heart remains at Chelsea, and I’m excited to continue my work there.”
Chelsea’s leadership has expressed their excitement at Hayes’ return. “Emma has been the foundation of our success over the years, and we’re thrilled to have her back,” Chelsea Football Club’s CEO stated.
The USWNT will now begin the search for a new head coach, with numerous names already being floated as potential replacements. As for Hayes, she will remain focused on guiding Chelsea through the remainder of the current season as they aim for more domestic and European honors.
Her decision marks the end of an era for the USWNT under her brief stewardship, but it also highlights the unbreakable bond she shares with Chelsea.
