Why Emma Hayes got them their first USWNT call-ups – Equalizer Soccer

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The noticeable inclusions of Emma Hayes’ U.S. Women’s National Team squad for October’s friendlies were Alyssa Malonson, Yazmeen Ryan and Emma Sears, all first-timers who will look to make an early impact as the team builds on its Olympic gold medal and heads towards the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Hayes’ latest selection is comprehensive, including players representing 12 of the 14 players National Women’s Soccer League Clubs. The focus is also clearly on the shape.

“The new players coming into camp – who were not part of the Olympic squad – are all players who have performed well throughout the NWSL season,” Hayes confirmed in her squad announcement press conference.

Malonson, Ryan and Sears are coming off positive seasons with Bay FC, NJ/NY Gotham and Racing Louisville, respectively. Their call-ups indicate a slight change in selection policy, where clubs’ performances in the domestic league can quickly pay dividends. In the past, U.S. rosters have traditionally been a mix of household names and well-known young talent. Malonson, Ryan and Sears are also all 25 or younger, meaning they should peak at the 2027 World Cup.

Let’s take a closer look at what these three players bring to the table and why Hayes brought them into the USA squad for two games against Iceland and one game against Argentina.