Emma Hayes has emerged as one of the standout figures of the World Cup on ITV, captivating audiences with her tactical breakdowns delivered via a simple chalkboard during hydration breaks. The former Chelsea Women manager, now head coach of the United States women's national team, brings a wealth of experience to the broadcaster's coverage from its studio in Brooklyn, New York.
From player to pundit
Born in London, Hayes initially pursued a playing career, joining the Arsenal academy as a youngster. However, a serious ankle injury sustained on a ski trip forced her into early retirement. She then turned to academia, studying at Liverpool Hope University before earning a master's degree in intelligence and international affairs. Her university experience sparked a move into coaching, beginning with a youth player development role at Crystal Palace after a spell coaching the women's team at Liverpool Hope.
In 2002, Hayes moved to the United States to become a first-team coach with Long Island Rough Riders, making her the youngest coach in the USL W-League at the time. After being named Coach of the Season, she spent two years with Iona Gaels before returning to England in 2005 as an assistant first-team coach at Arsenal Ladies. During her three-year tenure, Arsenal won 11 major trophies, including three league titles, three FA Cups, and the UEFA Cup.
Dominance at Chelsea
Hayes returned to the US in 2008 to manage the Chicago Red Stars and later held technical director roles at other American clubs. She came back to the UK in 2012 to take over as Chelsea Women manager mid-season. Over the next 12 years, she built one of the most dominant forces in English women's club football, winning 16 trophies. Her first silverware came in 2015 with a Women's Super League (WSL) and FA Cup double, followed by seven WSL titles, including five consecutive between 2020 and 2024. Her Chelsea trophy haul also includes five FA Cups, two League Cups, a WSL Spring Season title, and a Community Shield.
Despite her domestic success, the Champions League title eluded Hayes, with a runners-up finish in the 2020/21 season after a 4-0 defeat to Barcelona in the final. Individually, she was inducted into the WSL Hall of Fame in 2021 and won The Best FIFA Football Coach award in 2022. Her overall managerial record stands at 334 wins, 56 draws, and 116 losses from 506 matches, a win percentage of 66%.
Leading the USWNT
Hayes left Chelsea in 2024 to become head coach of the United States women's national team, widely considered the most prestigious role in women's football. Despite having only two months to prepare, she led the US to the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, winning all six matches, including a 1-0 victory over Brazil in the final. It was the USWNT's fifth Olympic gold and first since 2012.
Hayes will now guide the US at the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil. Should the team win a record-extending fifth World Cup title, Hayes would become only the second English manager—male or female—to win the World Cup.
ITV's breakout star
During the current World Cup, Hayes has been using hydration breaks to deliver tactical analysis with a chalkboard, a segment that has gone viral on social media. ITV Football posted a clip on X (formerly Twitter) captioned: "It's taking a while for Spain to be patient in what they're doing" with Hayes breaking down Spain's play. The 49-year-old's insights have been praised for their clarity and depth, making her a fan favorite among viewers.
