Rodman out with injury: Hayes “disappointed”, but optimistic for the USWNT

Emma Hayes laments Trinity Rodman’s absence from the USWNT

The coach of the United States women’s soccer team, Emma Hayes, expressed her disappointment at Trinity Rodman’s absence due to injury, although she remains hopeful that the forward will return to the field soon. Rodman, who had recently been called up after a six-month absence due to back pain, suffered a sprain of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) during a match with the Washington Spirit.

“She understands that these setbacks happen, but she is equally disappointed because she desperately wanted to be here,” Hayes commented.

Emma Hayes

Hayes was optimistic about Rodman’s recovery, hoping she will be back for the NWSL playoffs, which begin on November 7. Rodman’s team, the Washington Spirit, has already secured second place. Spirit coach Adrian Gonzalez described Rodman’s sprain as the “best possible scenario” after seeing her leave the field in tears and on crutches. Rodman has had limited participation with the USWNT since her outstanding performance at the 2024 Olympics, primarily due to recurring back problems.

USWNT coach Emma Hayes will not have Trinity Rodman for the matches against Portugal and New Zealand.Rodman posted a video on her TikTok account expressing her frustration at missing another USWNT camp due to injury. Hayes plans to select a player from the United States U-23 team to replace Rodman in the main team’s call-up. Rodman will attend the USWNT match against Portugal.

Tribute to Alex Morgan

The Thursday match will also include a ceremony honoring Alex Morgan, who retired last year after a successful career that included two World Cup titles and an Olympic gold medal.

“She is an incredible credit to her family, because her drive, her desire, her determination to prove her worth at the highest level is unmatched,” Hayes said.

Emma Hayes

Alyssa Thompson, USWNT forward, highlighted Morgan’s influence on her career, mentioning her role in the fight for equality and equal pay. The USWNT will also honor goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, who retired from international soccer last year, in a match on Sunday. The federation has created Alex Morgan and Alyssa Naeher dolls to distribute among fans at the matches.