Emma Hayes is aiming to revive the USWNT’s supremacy at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Emma Hayes, the former Chelsea manager, is set to lead the United States women’s national team in their quest to regain their dominance in international football. Hayes believes that a gold medal at the Paris Olympics this summer is crucial in reinstating the “fear” that the team once instilled in their opponents.

Speaking at a media roundtable in Manhattan, Hayes emphasized the importance of performing at their best level to have a chance at success. She acknowledged that the rest of the world no longer fears the USA in the same way they once did, and it is their responsibility to quickly identify what needs to be done to reach those levels again.

The USA’s disappointing last-16 elimination in the previous World Cup was their worst finish in a major tournament. This marked a significant decline for a team that had won four of the last eight World Cups, including the last two. Hayes aims to turn their fortunes around and restore their dominance on the international stage.

Hayes was appointed as head coach in November last year, following her successful tenure at Chelsea. Under her leadership, Chelsea became one of the world’s best teams over a span of 12 years. She concluded her time at Chelsea with a resounding 6-0 victory over Manchester United, securing their fifth consecutive Women’s Super League title.

On Tuesday, Hayes announced her 23-player squad for the upcoming matches. The squad includes two new faces, Sam Staab from the Chicago Red Stars and Hal Hershfelt from the Washington Spirit. Notably, Catarina Macario from Chelsea and Emily Fox from Arsenal have also made the cut. Additionally, 16-year-old Lily Yohannes from Ajax receives her second call-up in pursuit of her first cap.

The team’s preparations will include matches against South Korea on June 1 in Commerce City, Colorado, and a rematch on June 4 in St. Paul, Minnesota. Following these matches, the squad will be reduced to 18 players for the Olympics.

Emma Hayes’ appointment as head coach brings hope for the United States women’s national team to reclaim their position at the top of international football. With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, all eyes will be on Hayes and her squad as they strive to restore the fear factor that once defined their dominance.