Emma Hayes to be inducted into National Football Museum Hall of Fame | OneFootball

The National Football Museum will induct former Chelsea manager Emma Hayes into its Hall of Fame. She will join a list of fellow iconic managers including Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger in receiving the honour.

The museum will host the ceremony on Tuesday, September 30th in partnership with the local grassroots community.

Speaking on being inducted, Hayes said: “It’s a huge honour to be recognised by the National Football Museum and to join such an incredible list of personalities in the Hall of Fame. But when I think about individual honours, I always think about teams and players.

“Football is the ultimate team sport, and when teams have success, it’s not only due to the talent of the players, but also the willingness of those players to dedicate themselves to the overall success of the team. It’s also a reflection on the entire coaching staff and the backroom staff who have worked so hard to give help to prepare the players and give them a platform to succeed.

“So, as I step into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame, I do so with all the players and staff I’ve worked with over my career, and I’m sincerely appreciative of all of them.”

Emma Hayes’ legacy

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During her time in West London, Hayes led Chelsea to a record-breaking seven Women’s Super League titles, five FA Cups, and two Continental Cups. She also led the Blues to their first UWCL final in 2021. Prior to this, Hayes acted as an assistant to the wildly successful Vic Akers at London rivals Arsenal. Here, Hayes won a further 11 major titles, including the unprecedented quadruple in the 2006/07 season.

After leaving Chelsea in 2024, Hayes became the USWNT head coach. She succeeded Vlatko Andonovski to fulfil her dream of managing internationally. With just two months’ preparation, Hayes guided a revitalised USWNT to their fifth Olympic gold at the Paris Games.

Celebrating Hayes’ achievements beyond the touchline

Hayes has earned respect as one of football’s top coaches through her tactical insight, leadership, and unwavering commitment. Beyond her on-pitch success, she has been instrumental in raising professional standards and expanding opportunities within the women’s game.

Broadening the talent pool within the US, Hayes has given 17 players their international debuts during her first 20 games. This is more than any previous manager. Hayes has also earned numerous individual honours, including FIFA Best Women’s Coach in 2021, FA WSL Manager of the Season on six occasions, and an OBE for services to football in 2022.

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Tim Desmond, CEO of the National Football Museum, said: “Emma Hayes is a true trailblazer whose record as a manager speaks for itself. Hayes’ impact on football goes far beyond her exceptional record as a manager. She has been instrumental in raising the profile of the women’s game and inspiring future generations. We’re delighted to welcome her into the Hall of Fame later this year and to celebrate her achievements here at the museum, alongside local grassroots football communities.”

Paul Roots, Football Services Manager of the Manchester FA, added: “On behalf of the Manchester FA, we are delighted for Emma for her induction into the Hall of Fame. Equally, we are thrilled to be supporting the event along with Abbott Community Primary School and Collyhurst Youth and trust that everyone will have a great experience during the event.”

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