Emma Hayes is set to return to London in November for an exciting contest against Sarina Wiegman as the United States faces England in a friendly match at Wembley Stadium.
After leaving her position as Chelsea manager following a successful 12-year tenure at the club, Hayes has taken the helm of the US women’s national team. The 47-year-old will lead her new squad to London on Saturday, 30 November, as part of the Lionesses’ preparations for their defense of the European title.
Born in London, Hayes has led the USWNT to victory in her first two competitive matches, triumphing over Zambia and Germany, and successfully qualifying for the Olympic quarter-finals in Paris ahead of their final group match against Australia on Wednesday.
Speaking from France, Hayes expressed her enthusiasm, saying: “I’m incredibly excited. Wembley feels like a second home to me—not just from my childhood but also due to my success there as a manager. Returning to play just 20 minutes from my house against some amazing players will be fantastic.”
In addition to this matchup, England will also host Germany at Wembley on 25 October, a rematch of the Euro 2022 final. Following that, they will meet South Africa in Coventry four days later and face Euro 2025 hosts Switzerland at Bramall Lane in early December.
Lionesses head coach Wiegman commented: “Our preparations begin now. Securing our position for the tournament next summer, without having to go through playoffs, allows us ample time to focus on the upcoming challenges in Switzerland.”
“Playing at Wembley again, especially against top teams like Germany and the United States, is thrilling. Our fans consistently show up and create a vibrant atmosphere, which completely energizes the team, and I’m confident both games will be unforgettable.”
“Traveling with the team across the country is also vital to us, and we are thrilled to return to Coventry and Sheffield, both of which feature excellent stadiums,” Wiegman added. “We cherish the memories made in both cities, and I have no doubt the fans will turn out in droves to support us, as they always do.”
“I believe playing against high-level opponents globally is crucial,” Hayes stated. “I am not solely focused on Europe; we have the 2027 World Cup in Brazil to think about, and that will influence my planning over the next couple of years.”
“Facing the reigning European champions, who are among the best teams in Europe alongside Spain, will provide us with a valuable opportunity to gauge our performance in an away setting. In front of a full house at Wembley, I hope we can showcase our best selves. I am genuinely looking forward to the match.”
