By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
The manager since 2012 of Chelsea Football Club, Emma Hayes, has been appointed the new manager of the United States’ national women’s association football (soccer) team.
Hayes, who is 47 years old, will take up her new role on 18 May of next year when the current Women’s Super League (WSL) season ends.
Following her appointment, Hayes, commented as follows:
“I’ve dreamed about coaching the USA for a long time so to get this opportunity is a dream come true.”
She will become the highest paid women’s football coach in the world, although her compensation deal has not been officially disclosed, but her annual salary has been reported to be around US$1.6 million!
Cindy Parlow, the President of US Soccer, stated that Hayes is:
“a world class coach who sets high standards for herself and everyone around her.”
And added:
“She has tremendous energy and an insatiable will to win.”
The US women’s soccer team will need these qualities after an early exit from this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup!
Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘