Ranking the Future Stars: USWNT's Newcomers Under Emma Hayes' Leadership
Explore the rising stars of the USWNT under coach Emma Hayes as we rank the new players likely to represent the U.S. at the 2027 World Cup.

The U.S. women's national team (USWNT) has seen a significant transformation under the guidance of coach Emma Hayes. With 24 players making their international debuts in just 24 games, the team is undergoing a period of intense experimentation and development. This article ranks these newcomers based on their potential to secure a spot on the roster for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil.
24. Eva Gaetino | 22 | Defender | PSG
Gaetino's lone appearance for the U.S. was in a 3-0 win over Argentina. Despite her limited time, she remains a promising talent with room to grow.
23. Alyssa Malonson | 26 | Defender | Bay FC
Malonson is among the fullback options explored by Hayes, though her only cap came against Argentina.
22. Sam Staab | 28 | Defender | Chicago Stars FC
Staab's debut was marred by injury, but her resilience and skill keep her in contention for a future spot.
21. Lo'eau LaBonta | 32 | Midfielder | Kansas City Current
LaBonta's experience and NWSL form make her a valuable asset, though she faces stiff competition in midfield.
20. Sam Meza | 23 | Midfielder | Seattle Reign FC
Meza's steady play earned her a debut against Ireland, showcasing her potential as a deeper-lying midfielder.
19. Izzy Rodriguez | 26 | Defender | Kansas City Current
Rodriguez's attacking prowess at fullback makes her a unique option for Hayes' tactical plans.
18. Kerry Abello | 25 | Defender | Orlando Pride
Abello's versatility and attacking mindset provide her with multiple pathways to secure a spot on the team.
17. Mandy McGlynn | 26 | Goalkeeper | Utah Royals
McGlynn's debut places her in the running to replace the current goalkeeping trio, with a strong chance to make the 2027 roster.
16. Emily Sams | 26 | Defender | Orlando Pride
Sams' consistent performances for Orlando keep her in the mix, though she needs more starts to solidify her position.
15. Lilly Reale | 21 | Defender | NJ/NY Gotham FC
Reale's exceptional play against Canada and her left-footed crosses make her a standout defender with a bright future.
14. Jordyn Bugg | 18 | Defender | Seattle Reign FC
Bugg's development is on a fast track, with comparisons to Naomi Girma highlighting her potential as a future starting center back.
13. Hal Hershfelt | 23 | Midfielder | Washington Spirit
Hershfelt's toughness and passing vision make her a key player, though her health will be crucial for her 2027 prospects.
12. Emma Sears | 24 | Forward | Racing Louisville FC
Sears' athleticism and goal-scoring ability have caught Hayes' attention, making her a strong contender for the forward line.
11. Tara McKeown | 26 | Defender | Washington Spirit
McKeown's transition from forward to center back has been impressive, showcasing her aggressive and ball-playing style.
10. Yazmeen Ryan | 26 | Forward | Houston Dash
Ryan's versatility across the front four and her dynamic play make her a valuable asset, provided she maintains her club form.
9. Gisele Thompson | 19 | Defender | Angel City FC
Thompson's potential is widely recognized, with many seeing her as one of the next top American players.
8. Michelle Cooper | 22 | Forward | Kansas City Current
Cooper's relentless drive and ability to take on defenders have made her a standout in Hayes' plans.
7. Claudia Dickey | 25 | Goalkeeper | Seattle Reign FC
Dickey's performance in the NWSL and her recent debut affirm her place in the goalkeeping rotation.
6. Croix Bethune | 24 | Midfielder | Washington Spirit
Bethune's creativity and technical ability make her a promising midfielder, though she needs more time to refine her game.
5. Avery Patterson | 23 | Defender | Houston Dash
Patterson's exceptional two-way play and athleticism have positioned her as a key figure in Hayes' search for fullback solutions.
4. Claire Hutton | 19 | Midfielder | Kansas City Current
Hutton's poise and defensive skills make her a rare find in the midfield, with a bright future ahead.
3. Ally Sentnor | 21 | Forward | Utah Royals FC
Sentnor's speed and powerful shot draw comparisons to Lionel Messi, making her a versatile and dangerous forward.
2. Phallon Tullis-Joyce | 28 | Goalkeeper | Manchester United
Tullis-Joyce's rise to the top of the goalkeeping ranks has been meteoric, with her performances making her the favorite for the starting job.
1. Lily Yohannes | 18 | Midfielder | OL Lyonnes
Yohannes' composure and playmaking abilities mark her as a future star, with her recent transfer to OL Lyonnes furthering her development.