Emma Hayes, coach of the USWNT, announced that the upcoming training camp will largely feature domestic players to allow European-based players a much-needed break. Notably, vice-captain Naomi Girma will return after an injury. Hayes emphasized the importance of player welfare, stating this was a rare opportunity for rest before significant upcoming competitions, including the World Cup qualifying in 2026 and the World Cup in 2027. The decision was made after consultations with the performance and medical teams regarding players' workloads from recent seasons.
This is the first opportunity -- and the only one -- for them to take a break between now and the World Cup in two years, emphasizing player welfare and recovery.
It means the player doesn't get an offseason. We don't necessarily decide the international calendar, but we think it's in the best interest of the players.
The decision to rest players was a collaborative effort involving the USWNT's performance and medical teams, considering the players' minutes logged over recent years.
The USWNT will have a series of matches leading up to major tournaments, including World Cup qualifying next year and the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
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