Emma Hayes Will Make History As AFC Wimbledon Consider Appointing Her As New Manager

League One side AFC Wimbledon are reportedly considering a move to appoint Emma Hayes as their new first-team manager.

Hayes, who is currently in charge of FA Women's Super League side Chelsea, would become the first woman in history to take charge of a men's football league side if she were to get the job.

The 44-year-old has been put on a shortlist that includes former Blackpool manager Ian Holloway, ex-England defender Sol Campbell and recently sacked Fleetwood boss Joey Barton, according to The Express.

AFC Wimbledon decided to sack manager Glyn Hodges following their 2-0 defeat to MK Dons on Saturday.

Image: PA

A historic transition to the men's game could be on the cards if the struggling League One side decide to make a move for the talented Camden-born manager.

Hayes has managed a number of clubs in Women's football over the years, including spells at Long Island Lady Riders, Arsenal Ladies, Chicago Red Stars and Chelsea Women.

The Blues are currently on a remarkable 33-game unbeaten run in the Women's Super League after a win against Tottenham at the weekend.

Hayes has previously declared her desire to work in men's football.

"All coaches aspire to be at the best level they can get to, and I'm no different," she admitted. "If it happened for me that the next opportunity was in the men's game, then I'd welcome that.

"But I also think there needs to be more female coaches at the top end of the women's game before more are entering into the men's game."

Back in 2019, Hayes said that she was certain a woman would eventually manage in the men's game.

"It's going to happen and it's important I say that." she said.

"Managing people has no gender bias but unfortunately football is still stuck in the Victorian era where it thinks the only way to get the most out of professional athletes is with traditional management techniques.

"It will take a brave owner to take that decision but all it takes is one successful situation for it to happen again and again.

"The chances of going to manage in the Premier League as a woman are low but going in and managing at a level below, or as an assistant, makes sense.

"There is going to be pressure on that person. You'll have to put up with a fair amount of abuse. So it had better be worth it."

Image: PA

Thoughts on the possibility of Hayes taking the AFC Wimbledon job?

Let us know in the comments.

Topics: Football News, Chelsea, Football, WSL, football league, AFC Wimbledon, League One

Jack Kenmare

Jack Kenmare is a writer at SPORTbible. He's interviewed some of the biggest names in sport, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Pele, Carles Puyol and Tim Henman. He dabbles in all things sport but football is his biggest passion. He was once hit in the head by a wayward strike from Nicky Butt and lived to tell the tale.

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