Jeff Caschell
Emma Hayes, the head coach of the US Women’s National Team, commended 17-year-old midfielder Lily Johannes during a press conference, highlighting her promising future with the team.
Yet, Hayes also emphasized the importance of patience as Johannes is still gaining experience at a young age.
“She exhibits remarkable maturity and is very coachable. I believe individuals like her will play a significant role in our program,” Hayes mentioned to the media. “I’m dedicated to her development, and considering her youth and limited international exposure, it’s vital we remain patient.”
This week, Johannes rejoined the USWNT in preparation for matches against China and Jamaica. Their game on Saturday will be held at Allianz Field in St. Paul, Minnesota.
“It feels surreal to be back here,” Johannes stated in a video shared by US Football. “Returning here feels like a complete circle for me.”
After committing to the USWNT last fall, Johannes has earned six caps with the team.
The midfielder, who grew up in Virginia, moved to the Netherlands at age 10. Although the Dutch national team sought her out, she ultimately opted to represent the United States.
Johannes currently plays for the prestigious Dutch club Ajax Amsterdam, having signed a professional contract at 15. In 2023, she became the youngest player to start a UEFA Women’s Champions League match following Ajax’s historic win over Paris Saint-Germain in the group stage.
According to sources cited by ESPN’s Emily Keogh earlier this month, Chelsea, the former club of British champion Hayes, is contemplating signing Johannes during this summer’s transfer window.
“I remind everyone, she’s just 17,” Hayes stated. “She has a wealth of experience to gain, and her development over the next couple of years will be crucial.”
“Her time at Ajax has significantly contributed to her growth, enhancing her positional play well beyond her years,” Hayes added.
“She has shown remarkable physical development over the last year. Tactically, she typically plays against teams that utilize a mid to low block.”
Johannes narrowly missed out on making the USWNT Olympic roster last year, as she had not yet made her decision about her national affiliation.
The United States secured its fifth Olympic gold medal, a world record, while the Netherlands was ineligible for the tournament.
In April, Johannes participated in a rematch against Brazil, previously contending in the 2024 Olympic Gold Medal Game, coming off the bench in the second half to earn a penalty kick. Just days later, she started another match against Brazil.
Johannes also played as a box-to-box midfielder in a 2-1 loss to Japan, contributing to the team’s only goal that day.
Additionally, she assisted early in the Chebel Reeves Cup following a 2-0 victory against Colombia by providing a precise pass to teammate Yazmeen Ryan.
Hayes aimed to temper immediate expectations following these performances, reiterating that point on Friday.
“Playing against formidable opponents like Brazil and Japan was a high-level experience that will benefit her in the future,” Hayes observed. “However, as I always mention, there’s a lot of development ahead, and there will be ups and downs, which is to be expected from a 17-year-old.”
Fan Take: This news is significant for soccer fans as it highlights the emergence of young talent like Lily Johannes within the USWNT. Her success can inspire the next generation of players and enhance the competitive edge of women’s soccer on a global scale.
