The Renewal of the United States Women’s National Team: Who Shines for the 2027 World Cup?
Emma Hayes’s era at the helm of the United States women’s national soccer team has marked a period of intense experimentation, unprecedented for the world’s most successful team. In her first 24 matches, a total of 24 players have debuted at the international level, even after winning the gold medal at last summer’s Olympic Games. Now, Hayes has indicated that she is ready to reduce the group and focus on developing the team that will seek the fifth World Cup for the United States in Brazil 2027. But, which are the new players with the greatest chances of being on the list for the World Cup?Next, we analyze and classify the debutantes, considering their potential, the team’s needs, and how they fit into Hayes’ plans for 2027.
- Eva Gaetino: PSG defender. Her only appearance was in her debut, but she still has time to develop.
- Alyssa Malonson: Bay FC defender. Hayes has explored options in the full-back position, but Malonson has had few opportunities.
- Sam Staab: Chicago Stars FC defender. She suffered an injury after her debut, which affected her participation.
- Lo’eau LaBonta: Kansas City Current midfielder. Although she faces strong competition in midfield, her performance in the NWSL is notable.
- Sam Meza: Seattle Reign FC midfielder. She impressed in her debut, but has competition in her position.
- Izzy Rodriguez: Kansas City Current defender. She stands out in attack as a full-back in the NWSL.
- Kerry Abello: Orlando Pride defender. Full-back with the ability to play in different positions.
- Mandy McGlynn: Utah Royals goalkeeper. With the departure of the starting goalkeepers, she has an opportunity.
- Emily Sams: Orlando Pride defender. She has been consistent with Orlando, but seems to be at the bottom of the center-back table.
- Lilly Reale: NJ/NY Gotham FC defender. She stood out in her last match and shows good performance in her debut season.
- Jordyn Bugg: Seattle Reign FC defender. Her future in the national team looks promising.
- Hal Hershfelt: Midfielder. Her participation will depend on her physical condition.
- Emma Sears: Racing Louisville FC forward. Hayes has high expectations for her.
- Tara McKeown: Washington Spirit defender. She has shown progress in her transition to defender.
- Yazmeen Ryan: Forward for the Houston Dash. Her participation has been affected by injuries.
- Gisele Thompson: Defender for Angel City FC. Considered one of the future stars of American soccer.
- Michelle Cooper: Forward for the Kansas City Current. She has taken advantage of her opportunities.
- Claudia Dickey: Goalkeeper for the Seattle Reign FC. Her performance positions her as one of the best American goalkeepers.
- Croix Bethune: Midfielder for the Washington Spirit. Possesses creative talent.
- Avery Patterson: Defender for the Houston Dash. She has performed well and could be key in the full-back position.
- Claire Hutton: Midfielder for the Kansas City Current. Considered a great promise in defensive midfield.
- Ally Sentnor: Forward for the Utah Royals FC. She stands out for her skill with the ball.
- Phallon Tullis-Joyce: Goalkeeper for Manchester United. She has climbed positions rapidly and could be the starting goalkeeper.
- Lily Yohannes: Midfielder for OL Lyonnes. A rising star, with a great future in the team.
