Morgan Omitted from USA Women's Olympic Football Squad
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Loading... - Linda Claasen
- 28 Jun 2024
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In a surprising turn of events, two-time World Cup winner Alex Morgan has been excluded from the USA women's team squad for the upcoming Paris Olympic Games.
The announcement was made by the new USA head coach, Emma Hayes, who revealed her 18-player squad for the tournament, leaving no place for the 34-year-old veteran who has an impressive record of 123 goals in 224 appearances for the national side.
New Forward Lineup
Hayes has opted for a fresh forward lineup featuring Trinity Rodman, Jaedyn Shaw, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson as the primary attacking options. The squad is focused on securing a fifth Olympic gold and the first since 2012. Morgan, who was part of the gold-winning team at the London Games in 2012 and a crucial player in the 2015 and 2019 World Cup victories, expressed her disappointment on social media.
Morgan’s Statement
"I'm disappointed about not having the opportunity to represent our country on the Olympic stage. This will always be a tournament that is close to my heart, and I take immense pride any time I put on the crest," Morgan stated. "In less than a month, I look forward to supporting this team and cheering them on alongside the rest of our country."
Hayes' Decision
Emma Hayes, who has recently taken over the USA side after a successful tenure with Chelsea, acknowledged that leaving Morgan out was a tough decision. "I've only had one opportunity to work with her in the last camp, and I saw firsthand not just her qualities but her professionalism and her record speaks for itself," said Hayes. "It's not easy making a decision when there's only 16 outfield players and two goalkeepers on a roster of 18, so it was a tough decision, especially considering Alex's history and record with this team. But I felt I wanted to go in another direction and selected other players."
Morgan's Recent Involvement
Morgan had initially been left out of the USA team for the recent CONCACAF W Gold Cup campaign but was a late call-up as a replacement after injuries to other players.
New Head Coach, New Vision
Hayes, an English coach, took charge of the USA team last month, bringing a fresh perspective and vision to the squad. Her selection reflects a mix of experience and emerging talent, focusing on building a dynamic team capable of competing at the highest level.
Controversial Inclusion of Korbin Albert
One notable inclusion in the squad is 20-year-old midfielder Korbin Albert, who has faced criticism over controversial social media posts on LGBT issues. Hayes defended Albert's selection, stating, "I think she has had a really tough time, and that has shown in her performances. She's a young person and having to deal with a lot of criticism, rightfully so. But I can say firsthand, having spent a limited time with Korbin, that she really is a lovely person. I want the fans to really embrace Korbin because I do think she is a tremendous human being."
Preparation Matches
Before heading to France, the USA team will play friendlies against Mexico in New Jersey on July 13 and Costa Rica in Washington D.C. on July 16. These matches will serve as crucial preparation for the Olympic Games.
Olympic Group Stage
At the Olympics, the USA has been drawn in Group B, where they will face Zambia, Germany, and Australia. This challenging group stage will test the team's readiness and adaptability under Hayes' new leadership.
Full Squad for Paris Olympic Games
Goalkeepers:
-Casey Murphy (North Carolina Courage)
-Alyssa Naeher (Chicago Red Stars)
Defenders:
-Tierna Davidson (Gotham FC)
-Emily Fox (Arsenal)
-Naomi Girma (San Diego Wave)
-Casey Krueger (Washington Spirit)
-Jenna Nighswonger (Gotham FC)
-Emily Sonnett (Gotham FC)
Midfielders:
-Korbin Albert (PSG)
-Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns FC)
-Lindsey Horan (Lyon)
-Rose Lavelle (Gotham FC)
-Catarina Macario (Chelsea)
Forwards:
-Smith (Portland Thorns)
-MalloryCrystal Dunn (Gotham FC)
-Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit)
-Jaedyn Shaw (San Diego Wave)
-Sophia Swanson (Chicago Red Stars)
The exclusion of Alex Morgan from the USA women's Olympic football squad marks a significant shift in the team's strategy as they head into the Paris Games. Under Emma Hayes' new leadership, the squad aims to blend experience with emerging talent, setting their sights on reclaiming Olympic gold. With a mix of returning stars and promising newcomers, the team is poised to face tough competition with renewed vigor.
FAQs
Why was Alex Morgan left out of the squad?
Alex Morgan was left out of the squad due to new head coach Emma Hayes' decision to go in a different direction with the forward lineup, opting for younger talents.
Who are the new forward options in the squad?
The new forward options include Trinity Rodman, Jaedyn Shaw, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson.
What is Emma Hayes' background?
Emma Hayes is an English coach who recently took charge of the USA team after a successful spell with Chelsea.
What group is the USA team in for the Olympics?
The USA team is in Group B, where they will face Zambia, Germany, and Australia.
What preparation matches will the USA team play before the Olympics?
The USA team will play friendlies against Mexico in New Jersey on July 13 and Costa Rica in Washington D.C. on July 16.
