Emma Hayes' much-anticipated move to become manager of the USA national team has been confirmed.
The USWNT struggled at the recent Women's World Cup after back-to-back victories and have now entrusted the Chelsea stalwart as the coach to helm their revival.
The 47-year-old will see out her 12th season in west London before heading Stateside in the summer, with her first major tournament being the 2024 Olympics - where she could yet face England.
“This is a huge honour to be given the opportunity to coach the most incredible team in world football history,” said Hayes.
“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. To get there, it will require dedication, devotion and collaboration from the players, staff and everyone at the US Soccer Federation.”
It has also been confirmed that Londoner Hayes will be the highest-paid women's manager in the world.
US Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker gave an insight into the extensive recruitment process that led the four-time world champions to Hayes.
“Once the list of candidates was narrowed down, we had a group of excellent coaches and leaders to consider, but we felt strongly that Emma was the best person and coach to take the US Women’s National Team forward,” said Crocker.
“Her passion for the game, her coaching acumen, her ability to galvanise players and staff, her dedication to continue to evolve as a coach and her qualities as a person are all incredibly impressive. She has a great appreciation for the legacy of this program and embraces the big challenges ahead.”
