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.

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