Emily Fox, the Arsenal right-back, has made 68 appearances for the United States and remains a key figure under manager Emma Hayes. The 27-year-old describes 2025 as 'part of the process' for the USWNT, a year focused on growth and integrating new players. 'I feel like every camp there is a huge learning,' Fox said, highlighting the tactical and cultural development overseen by Hayes and her staff.
Hayes, who led the US to Olympic gold in 2024, has used 2025 to refine the team's identity and tactical flexibility. Fox noted the emphasis on adapting to opponents: 'Having that tactical ability to recognise that on the field, and then being able to talk to your teammates and collectively make those changes on the fly.' The team lost three matches this year, including a first-ever defeat to Portugal, but Fox stressed the importance of lessons learned.
Fox also spoke about the excitement generated by younger players in the squad. 'With the game and with our national team there's just this buzz of excitement,' she said. 'They want to have fun. They want to enjoy it. There's definitely this level of confidence and creativity that they all want to show.'
Reflecting on Arsenal, Fox highlighted the impact of winning the Champions League last May. 'I feel like it added a whole other depth to me,' she said, noting the demanding qualifying rounds. The move to London nearly two years ago was driven by a desire to grow her game, and the Champions League triumph has expanded her perception of her capabilities.
