Emma Hayes Leaving Alex Morgan Out of Paris Olympics: “Takes Bravery”, Ex-USWNT Star Sings High Praises
To this day, Emma Hayes’ decision to leave Alex Morgan off the Paris Olympics roster remains a controversial one, often viewed through different lenses. Many fans and analysts were eager to see the legendary Alex Morgan play in what might have been her final major international tournament, especially after the bittersweet conclusion of her 2023 World Cup journey. But Hayes, the fearless English manager, took a bold stance and opted not to include Morgan in the squad, leaving soccer enthusiasts worldwide astonished. For Leslie Osborne, a revered former USWNT player, this decision constituted nothing less than an act of ‘bravery.’
But there’s more to the story than just this headline-making choice. During the latest episode of Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union podcast, Bay FC owner and former holding midfielder Leslie Osborne reflected on Hayes’ managerial prowess. “Super impressed with Emma. What she has done has truly been amazing,” Osborne stated, remembering the moment when Hayes took over U.S. Soccer. What caught Osborne’s admiration wasn’t just the tactical decisions Hayes made, but the grace with which she managed to handle dual responsibilities—steering the roster selection for the U.S. Women’s National Team alongside Twila Kilgore, while simultaneously concluding her coaching tenure with Chelsea.
Osborne found Hayes’ transition ‘insane’ as she stepped fully into her role with USWNT just two camps before the Olympics. Adding to the audacity, Hayes’ decision to leave out veteran superstar Alex Morgan is what Osborne labeled as particularly gutsy. “I think it takes bravery, leaving Alex Morgan off the roster. Managing big personalities, balancing the mix of seasoned veterans with emerging young players is never easy,” Osborne noted passionately. She underscored that Hayes’ conviction in her approach spoke volumes—the type of courage that defines successful managers. Imagine if things had gone wrong for the USWNT during the Summer Games. No one would have held back criticism, especially over leaving behind a player of Morgan’s caliber.
Hayes’ gamble, however, paid off. The decision may have been divisive, but it was a statement: a sign of a new era, a readiness to evolve and a testament to the courage it takes to embrace change even at the risk of public backlash. Leslie Osborne was quick to praise that fortitude, emphasizing the importance of Hayes trusting in herself and the process—a quality Osborne loves about her.
“What I always remember about Emma is how much she genuinely cares about her players,” Osborne shared. “She spends so much time getting to know them, nurturing a foundation of trust that is fundamental for a young team. Especially considering the ongoing transition, building that camaraderie is essential.” And for Osborne, the way Hayes led the team through the Olympic challenge was nothing short of remarkable. Hayes prioritized team unity over individual star power, and it paid off beautifully.
It’s apparent that Leslie Osborne, like many others, remains in awe of the impact that Emma Hayes has had on the U.S. Women’s National Team. “She’s placed them in the best position possible for growth,” Osborne claimed, noting that the waves of change Hayes is steering are likely to push the four-time World Cup winners towards new heights.
Emma Hayes and the USWNT Are in the “Best Position Possible”
Looking ahead to the November window, where the USWNT is set to take on England and the Netherlands, Osborne believes Hayes is perfectly poised to take advantage of the recent momentum—especially their triumph at the Paris Games. Osborne highlighted that their recent gold medal win could provide an invaluable mental edge over their formidable European opponents. “Now, she’s in the best position possible,” Osborne exclaimed, her confidence in Hayes evident.
Osborne also commended Hayes’ choice to leave several veterans—including the renowned “Triple Espresso” trio—off the roster for these friendlies. This decision opens the doors for younger players to rise and shine, stepping up on major stages like Wembley and Bingoal Stadium. Such exposure not only accelerates player growth but is also strategically ideal for testing newer talents in challenging conditions. Osborne concluded, “That’s an ideal situation for Hayes.”
Emma Hayes has always been a manager who plays to win, but she also plays for the future. By trusting fresh faces and managing egos deftly, Hayes is building a foundation that might ensure U.S. Soccer remains at the pinnacle of women’s football.
