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The 2024 Olympics road has officially begun for the USWNT with a bold squad announcement from new coach, Emma Hayes. With less than a month in her new role, Hayes has already made headlines by excluding Alex Morgan, one of the most iconic figures in women’s soccer, from the 18-woman squad. This decision is part of a larger strategy that highlights the infusion of young talent. It also demonstrates the coach’s commitment to building a dynamic team capable of competing on the world’s biggest stage.
Who else didn’t make the cut?
The exclusion of Alex Morgan, a seasoned striker with three previous Olympic appearances, has been the most talked-about aspect. Everyone knows the 34-year-old for her scoring prowess and leadership on the field. Thus, many expected her to be part of the squad. Hayes has chosen a combination of young, adaptable players and seasoned veterans, and her absence signals a change in approach.
The coach explained her decision, stating that trimming the player pool was a challenge, given the wealth of talent available. “It’s not easy making a decision that is only 16 outfield players and two goalkeepers on a roster of 18. It was a tough decision, of course, especially considering Alex’s history and record with this team. But I felt that I wanted to go in another direction selected on the players,” Hayes said.
Another significant exclusion is Becky Sauerbrunn, a veteran defender who has been a cornerstone of the USWNT for years. Instead, Hayes has opted for younger defenders like Naomi Girma, Tierna Davidson, and Emily Sonnett; all of whom bring a mix of experience and youth. Girma, in particular, is seen as a future star and a key component of the team’s defense moving forward.
But one of the more intriguing storylines is the omission of Lily Yohannes, a talented teenager who remains eligible to play for the Netherlands. Hayes acknowledged Yohannes’ potential but noted that the player has not yet committed…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/uswnt-reveal-olympics-squad-morgan-and-yohannes-out/
Author : Martina Alcheva
Publish date : 2024-06-27 17:21:07
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