The year 2025 opens with the USWNT in a completely new cycle. Under the baton of Emma Hayes, the team doesn't take the field to play matches but to consolidate strategies in a training camp full of opportunity, testing new talents. Mixing veterans and players without international experience, this roster is perfectly balanced between renovation and competitiveness, while preparing the foundation for forthcoming challenges such as the SheBelieves Cup.
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A training camp beyond matches: though it might sound secondary, the fact that no matches will take place within the schedule of this training camp is an opportunity. Hayes intends to work within a more technically and tactically developmental environment, free from the demand for instant results. She made clear that she aims at building space for players' growth on an individual and collective basis.
With the SheBelieves Cup on the horizon, the camp is crucial to align expectations and begin to take shape for the roster that will face Japan, Australia, and Colombia in February. The absences of stars like Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson, and Rose Lavelle-all out due to injuries or off-season recovery-create space for new players to gain valuable minutes and impress the coaching staff.
A roster mixing experience and potential
There is an interesting balance among the 26 called up: from Crystal Dunn, the most experienced player in the list, with 155 caps, to six debutants who have never played an official international game. In goal, with Alyssa Naeher's retirement, the main job will fall upon Casey Murphy with 20 caps. She'll be joined by newcomers like Angelina Anderson and Claudia Dickey, who get the opportunity to prove themselves in a group clearly undergoing renewal.
Behind that, defensive names like Naomi Girma and Emily Sonnett bring in stability and leadership, while Tara McKeown and Ryan Williams, on the other hand, inject the squad with fresh legs. The attack will feature veterans such as Lynn Williams sharing space with the promising duo of Ally Sentnor and Ella Stevens as both get ready to prove their mettle in competitive football.
Tactic by Emma Hayes
Hayes seems determined to take the USWNT in new directions, focusing on creating a culture where player development is a priority. This vision is important for a team that, despite its victorious history, has the constant pressure of staying at the top of world soccer.
Her methods involve working with two groups simultaneously, with the main camp joined by a Futures Camp featuring 24 of the best emerging players. This model ensures the development and strengthening not just of the current team but also continues the pipeline of talent into the squad for years to come.
Notable absences and unique opportunities
Not surprising, given the camp falls outside an official FIFA international window, but where there's no Rodman, Smith, and Lavelle headlining the roster, there is the chance for players looking to jump in and take a spot.
Players like Ashley Sanchez and Sam Coffey, both with 28 caps, take on a greater role in this context. Forward Ashley Hatch, an NWSL veteran, also returns with a chance to show she can still be an important piece for the team. These moments of opportunity are fundamental to testing the squad's depth and preparing the team for future competitions.