As we approach the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, the U.S. women’s national team is already gearing up for what promises to be an exciting tournament. With just a year to go, head coach Emma Hayes has begun shaping her roster, and it’s time to take a closer look at the players who are likely to make the cut. After securing their eighth SheBelieves Cup title, despite the absence of key players, the team’s future looks promising, and the upcoming World Cup could showcase a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents.
Key Players Returning from Injury and Maternity Leave
The U.S. team has faced several challenges recently, with players like Sophia Wilson and Mallory Swanson recovering from maternity leave, while Tierna Davidson and Catarina Macario are still working through injuries. Despite these absences, the team has continued to perform at a high level, thanks to a mix of experienced players and young stars. If these players are fully recovered by the time the World Cup rolls around, they are expected to play crucial roles. Hayes has built a reputation for developing a deep player pool, and we are already seeing the fruits of her efforts with the development of emerging talents.
The U.S. Women's National Team's Core Group
Under Hayes’ guidance, the team has seen the emergence of several new players who could soon become key contributors. In recent camps, Hayes has highlighted a "core group" of players who she believes are ready to step up for the 2027 World Cup. Players like Michelle Cooper, Claire Hutton, and Gisele Thompson are among those who have earned regular call-ups and are fighting for spots in the World Cup squad. These players, having come through the U.S. youth systems, are now competing for a chance to represent the U.S. on the world stage. Their performances will be critical as Hayes finalizes her roster in the coming months.
2027 Roster Breakdown: Who Will Make the Cut?
Goalkeepers (1): Tullis-Joyce (Manchester United) has emerged as Hayes’ top choice in goal, following a standout performance in the SheBelieves Cup. After winning a share of the Golden Glove in the Women's Super League, she looks set to fill the void left by Alyssa Naeher.
Defenders (7): Naomi Girma (Chelsea) and Emily Fox (Arsenal) are expected to anchor the defense, with Tierna Davidson (Gotham FC) and Emily Sonnett (Gotham FC) providing solid backup. Lilly Reale and Tara Rudd, both on the rise, will add depth to the defensive line.
Midfielders (7): The midfield is brimming with talent, including the experienced Lindsey Heaps (OL Lyonnes) and Rose Lavelle (Gotham FC), alongside younger players like Jaedyn Shaw (Gotham FC) and Olivia Moultrie (Portland Thorns). Hayes has a variety of tactical options in the midfield, making it one of the most flexible and competitive areas of the team.
Forwards (6): The attacking lineup is where things get interesting. With the return of Mallory Swanson and Sophia Wilson from maternity leave, alongside the dynamic Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit) and Sophia Smith (Portland Thorns), the U.S. has a potent forward group. Alyssa Thompson (Chelsea) and Ally Sentnor (Kansas City Current) are also expected to play important roles, providing options off the bench.
As the U.S. women’s team continues to prepare for the 2027 World Cup, these players will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s success. With a solid mix of youth and experience, the U.S. is poised to be a serious contender on the global stage.
