Alexi Lalas slams USWNT legends: “Morgan and Rapinoe were stumbling blocks”

Lalas critiques 2023 World Cup roster

USWNT legends Alex Morgan (left) and Megan Rapinoe.

USWNT legends Alex Morgan (left) and Megan Rapinoe.LAPRESSE

The USWNT’s journey from the disappointment of the 2023 World Cup to their current resurgence has been nothing short of remarkable. After being knocked out in the round of 16, the team faced a lot of criticism, but they have since bounced back in a big way.

Under the guidance of Emma Hayes, the USWNT is now showcasing the kind of football that many had expected from them last year. The team’s current attack, led by players like Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson, Sophia Smith, and Lynn Williams, has been the talk of the town.

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As former USMNT star Alexi Lalas put it, “This is almost in many ways the team that people wanted Vlatco to have in the summer of the 2023 World Cup. This is it.” Lalas believes that the team’s current lineup is the one that should have been in place a year ago, hinting that veterans like Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe were “stumbling blocks” in the 2023 World Cup.

Lalas added: “And this is one thing to say that this is the natural progression, this is you know where it was heading anyway. But no! There were plenty of people that said at that time ‘No whether it’s Alex Morgan or whether it’s Megan Rapinoe, it’s not the right mix on and off the field, and this should have been done a year ago.‘”

Lalas weighs in on USWNT’s shift under Hayes

While Morgan and Rapinoe have already cemented their legacy with the USWNT, winning two World Cups and an Olympic gold together, it seems their time had come to an end. Both players failed to find the back of the net during the 2023 World Cup, and even missed crucial penalty kicks, ultimately leading to the team’s early exit.

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However, the current USWNT squad under Emma Hayes is proving to be a delight to watch. Lalas believes that Hayes deserves credit for the team’s resurgence, stating, “Lalas thinks Emma Hayes gets credit.“

The transformation of the USWNT from the disappointment of 2023 to their current form is a testament to the team’s resilience and the ability of the new generation of players to step up and shine. As the world watches the USWNT’s journey, it’s clear that the future of the team is in good hands.