Emma Hayes claims Sarina Wiegman’s contract extension is a ‘smart move’ for England and admits she would like to face her with USA at the 2027 World Cup

Emma Hayes says Sarina Wiegman’s contract extension is a ‘smart move’ for England and admitted it would be ‘fun’ to go up against her at the World Cup in 2027.

Wiegman committed her future to the Lionesses earlier this week by penning a new deal that will keep her in post for the next two tournaments.

This makes the Lionesses boss one of the highest earners in women’s football, alongside Hayes, who will take up the manager’s job with the United States this summer.

Asked about the possibility of going up against Wiegman in 2027, Hayes said: ‘Incredible job, incredible manager, deserving of where she is and what she’s got.

‘I think it’s a smart move from England. England know they’ve got a top, top manager.’

Hayes would relish the chance to face Weigman at the 2027 World Cup with the USA

 ‘I know her well enough to know she’s hugely competitive and she will continue to push that group.

‘We’re competitors. When it’s time for us to go up against each other it will be fun. 

‘In the meantime, we’ve got to get everything right so we can get the England players at Chelsea right for her so she can prepare her team for the internationals.

‘You have to qualify for the World Cup first. So, I don’t think we can talk about the World Cup [yet].

Wiegman believes that Hayes’ move to the USA will be beneficial for the women’s game

Wiegman also admitted it would be ‘exciting’ to face Hayes and believes her move to the US is one that is good for the women’s game. 

‘I think her move to the US is a good one, too,’ the Lionesses boss said.

‘For now, it is good that we work together because of [England] international players at Chelsea, so we collaborate. But after May we’ll be opponents.

‘That’s exciting too. I wish her the best of luck, of course but not against us.’