Emma Hayes names USWNT roster for 2025 SheBelieves Cup, key absences raise eyebrows

Following the January training camp, head coach Emma Hayes finalized her squad, opting for a youth-heavy lineup that excludes some big names—including a third goalkeeper, fan-favorite Rose Lavelle, and rising defensive star Naomi Girma.

A youth-focused roster and a controversial goalkeeping decision

Hayes emphasized that her selections reflect a long-term vision, prioritizing player development and finding new depth across key positions.

“I need to develop the entire player pool,” Hayes stated in a press conference, explaining that her primary focus for this tournament will be fullback depth.

One of the biggest surprises? Instead of the expected three goalkeepers, Hayes only named two—Jane Campbell and Mandy McGlynn.

“I chose to bring an extra outfield player because most of the squad is still in preseason, with the NWSL yet to kick off," she explained. As for leaving out Phallon Tullis-Joyce, Hayes noted that the goalkeeper needs more time to adjust to the team’s system and improve her decision-making under pressure.

Hayes backs NWSL over the English league

With several top U.S. players drawing interest from England—Naomi Girma recently joined Chelsea—Hayes made it clear she still sees the NWSL as the world’s best league.

“I believe the NWSL is a top-tier league, arguably the most competitive from top to bottom. I don’t think it’s even up for debate—it’s the toughest league in the world,” Hayes declared.

SheBelieves Cup Call

GOALKEEPERS: Jane Campbell (Houston Dash), Mandy McGlynn (Utah Royals)

DEFENDERS: Tierna Davidson (NJ/NY Gotham FC), Crystal Dunn (Paris Saint-Germain, FRA), Emily Fox (Arsenal FC, ENG), Tara McKeown (Washington Spirit), Jenna Nighswonger (Arsenal FC, ENG), Emily Sams (Orlando Pride), Emily Sonnett (NJ/NY Gotham FC), Gisele Thompson (Angel City FC)

MIDFIELDERS: Korbin Albert (Paris Saint-Germain, FRA), Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns FC), Lindsey Heaps (Olympique Lyon, FRA), Claire Hutton (Kansas City Current), Jaedyn Shaw (North Carolina Courage), Lily Yohannes (Ajax, NED)

FORWARDS : Lynn Biyendolo (Seattle Reign FC), Michelle Cooper (Kansas City Current), Catarina Macario (Chelsea FC, ENG), Yazmeen Ryan (Houston Dash), Emma Sears (Racing Louisville FC), Ally Sentnor (Utah Royals), Alyssa Thompson (Angel City FC)

This article was originally written in Spanish and translated with the assistance of AI before being edited.

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