Hayes claims Wiegman's contract extension is a 'smart move' for England

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.’

‘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 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. 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.’