By Alex Al-Kazzaz
We're about a month from the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France. With all the competition to be excited about, the Olympics is unique. Football/Soccer has been a big part of it. The United States Women's National Team has a legacy of success in the Olympics. They're set to write a new chapter starting next month. The USWNT is entering a new era under a new coach.
It seems that as part of the start of the new era, Alex Morgan is not a part of it. The 34-year-old veteran striker was not selected to represent the United States in Paris. This is the first time since 2008 that the USWNT will not have Morgan on the team. Morgan has scored 123 goals in 224 appearances for the USWNT. She plays for San Diego FC of the National Women's Soccer League. Ten players from last year's World Cup run are on the roster that will participate in the Olympics.
Morgan's absence is a surprise because the team has done well with her. However, Morgan's recently dealt with an injury and she's not off to a good start with San Diego FC this year. However, the time has come for the national team to go with the younger talent to build and prepare for the future. Morgan not being on the team may strike a blow to the team due to her leadership and expertise being a strong influence on the younger talent.
After their disastrous run at the World Cup last year, the USWNT is looking to achieve some redemption. They're drawn into a group with Germany, Australia, and Zambia. They'll face some competition, which is what they desperately need. As part of the rebuild, whether or not the team can take on challenges, will tell if rebuild progress is being made or not.