Emma Hayes Returns to England for Wembley Friendly

Emma Hayes will make a notable return to England as she leads the United States women’s national team against the Lionesses in a friendly at Wembley on November 30. Hayes, who took over as the US head coach in November 2023 will be facing her old team’s rivals in this high-profile match. England’s schedule also includes a friendly against Germany at Wembley on October 25, a rematch of the Euro 2022 final which England won 2-1 before a crowd of 87,192.

The Lionesses will play South Africa at the Coventry Building Society Arena on October 29 and conclude their 2024 fixtures against Switzerland at Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane on December 3. These matches are part of England’s preparation for Euro 2025 in Switzerland. England manager Sarina Wiegman expressed excitement about the upcoming fixtures, emphasizing the importance of playing at Wembley and across the country.

“Securing our place at the tournament next summer, without needing play-offs, gives us the maximum time to prepare,” Wiegman said. “Playing against high-quality teams like Germany and the United States at Wembley is thrilling, and visiting Coventry and Sheffield is also important for us.”

Currently with the US team in France for the 2024 Paris Olympics, Emma Hayes departed Chelsea as their most successful head coach following a remarkable 12-year tenure. During her time with Chelsea, she won 14 trophies, making her one of the most decorated managers in the club’s history.