Emma Hayes on Korbin Albert boos at Wembley over anti-LGBTQ+ social media posts: “Fans entitled to opinions”

United States women’s national team head coach Emma Hayes acknowledged that fans are “entitled to their opinions” after midfielder Korbin Albert was booed when she was introduced as a second-half substitute during Saturday's 0-0 draw against England.

According to ‘ESPN’, Albert entered the game in the 73rd minute of the match against the European champions but was met with boos at Wembley Stadium, in contrast to the cheers her teammates received. When questioned about the negative reaction from the crowd, Hayes remarked: “Of course I understand the booing and everybody is entitled to their opinions on it, without a doubt. My job is not to weigh in on the debate. I'm a football coach to produce a football team.”

Earlier this year, Albert shared anti-LGBTQ+ content on social media and later expressed regret, stating she was “really disappointed” in herself. Hayes, who began working with the USWNT in the summer, supported Albert but emphasised that the 21-year-old must learn from this experience.

This is not Albert’s first encounter with a negative response from spectators. In June, the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder was booed on the first day of Pride month during the USA’s 4-0 victory over South Korea in Colorado.

“I've sat down with her, I've had several conversations with her in and around these things to make sure that self-development piece is there,” Hayes said after the match in London.

“There have been opportunities for Korbin to be interviewed about this postgame, and maybe people haven't asked the questions and even at the Olympics.”

During the friendly, both captains wore rainbow armbands in support of the Rainbow Laces campaign organised by the LGBTQ+ rights charity Stonewall. Hayes emphasised that the team has cultivated an inclusive environment and reiterated that fans are entitled to their views.

“No one's going to enjoy that, but you have to appreciate that there is a community that support our team and everybody wants to feel that. I know for me, we create an environment that's not just inclusive, respectful, and tolerant, which I do do, but I cannot control what happens outside our environment.

“I'm sure when the moment comes and Korbin is asked about it, then no, it's for her to address, not for me. But I totally appreciate the fans doing that and they're entitled to do that.”