United States women’s national team head coach Emma Hayes sung the praises of 17-year-old midfielder Lily Yohannes again on Friday, saying Yohannes has a bright future with the program.
Hayes also reiterated the need for patience from the public, however, citing Yohannes’ youth and relative inexperience.
“She’s got unbelievable maturity and coachability, and someone who I know is going to become an important part of our program,” Hayes told reporters. “But I’m invested in that development, and we have to be patient with that considering her tender age and her lack of international and high-level experience.”
Yohannes rejoined the USWNT this week for upcoming games against China and Jamaica. Saturday’s game against China will be played at Allianz Field in St. Paul, Minnesota — the site of Yohannes’ first cap and first goal nearly a year ago to the day.
“It’s crazy to be back here,” Yohannes said in a video released by U.S. Soccer. “That was such a special moment for me, so to be back here is kind of full…
