ASHLEY SANCHEZ on not playing in the World Cup, her surprise trade, and TikTok trends | Friendlies

[@beggyberry]

Wow, this was a powerful interview! I think it says a lot about Sam that players open up about the tough and real parts of their careers. Was very, very interesting to hear about the WC because I think a lot of us were confused as to why Ashley didn’t play. Hoping she makes her way back on USWNT (and plays!) soon. ❤

[@bkirstie]

I agree. I wish she would talk to players or I hope in the future that some of the players talk about the abuse they received from their coaches who got fired.

[@ge009]

Easily the best listener in woso media

[@jamesjones4309]

Sam been there done that is why she's open to talk to

[@jamesjones4309]

@@beggyberry Why is Horan a captain. Her skill set is limited.

[@nmikloiche]

I love the humanity that comes out when Sam interviews players. The players really let down their guard in a very good way and makes them so relatable to the average fan. Traditional media can come off as predatory while Sam is just invested and interested. Thanks for another great installment!

[@yonsy22]

Ashley is honestly one of my favorite players to watch, and I hope that she can reach even higher than she already has in her career! My wish is to see her back on the USWNT because I feel like she deserves to be there. She is such an amazing talent

[@Chelseawfc487]

Yeah really hoping that she can find her way back to the USWNT she deserves it. I hope that Emma takes her into consideration.

[@davidt3956]

That WC discussion was a wonderful conversation about mental health.

[@LaPopis-zk9ek]

Excellent interview. I think that the discussion about the lack of Mexican-American players in the team deserved a little more time (perhaps another episode). I am a huge U.S. WNT fan, but when they play against Mexico, I can’t help but to root for Mexico. I see both teams and I see myself represented in the Mexican team rather than the USA team. I think Sanchez is right that the pay to play system puts Mexican American (and other minorities) players at a disadvantage. The Liga MX Femenil has actually been very beneficial to Mexican-American college athletes because teams in that league are actively recruiting a great number of these players and helping them develop into professional athletes.

[@kidjayhawk]

Holy shit. I had no clue coming in how emotional this would be. Sam asks the hard questions. And that's why I watch all her stuff. Sanchez is going to be okay. Either in soccer or life. And she's young. She has a lot to look forward to. Can't wait!

[@auru13]

They way she was so honest about everything she dealt with makes me have so much more respect for her. She will have another opportunity in the national team, I have no doubts!

[@yulisanchez5089]

Ashley Sanchez is amazing. Hopefully coaches see the player that she is.

[@erobinsonii]

Coach Sean Nahas sees Ashley Sanchez as a valuable player.

[@piemacri]

So many good questions in this interview and great answers from Sanchez about the tough moments.

[@jaimet574]

Thank you for having Ashley on your show! Great interview and I'm even more of a fan of hers! So yeah...super excited to have her with the Courage team and hope that EH gets that invite out to her soon. She deserves to be on the USWNT team!

[@magilu11]

Ash & Kristie not playing at all during the tournament was such a big mistake from the coaching staff.

[@julianpeavy303]

Ash was playing all up until the tournament, her not playing was a mistake. Kristie was always more of a reserve option, it makes more sense she didnt get a run out

[@Chelseawfc487]

Yeah it makes sense why Kristie didn't play because she was more of a reserve like you said. Ash should have played why Vlatko didn't put her in is beyond me 😢.

[@UTxTheArchangel]

Yea this is one of many reasons Vlatko lost his job. This is a tactical mistake and can be seen as one of the many reasons our ladies didn't have the expected showing.

[@mdpius]

I feel like there was something not said. Why was she told she will not play even before the games? Is this another Gio Reyna situation? Or is Vladko that bad a coach?

[@sophia-uc5nz]

This was a great interview. She had such a great attitude. I hope she gets another chance with the USWNT. She’s too good to not give the chance.

[@JosepMolina]

I love Sam personality, she's so likable. She's also very knowledgeable without being pompous. Also, I hope Ashley continues her comeback and gets another opportunity at the USWNT, I think she's really good.

[@2195brodie]

I obviously don't know Kelly but I do get the impression that she would be inclusive and understanding. Great to hear there was a comforting player and a legend to help Ash through that hard time. Really glad NC team welcomed Ash. I really hope things get better with Emma, seems like they will.

[@roxie-Lolas-momma]

I fricken love this show. Ashley is like a cute little button that's also fricken fierce! Sam is a bright light in my day each week. Keep doing what ur doing! ☀️⚽️

[@futbolfeme]

I listened to the interview again, and it's remarkable how candidly Ashley Sanchez responded to Sam's pointed and delicate questions. It's no coincidence, given Sam Mewis' keen insights into the mental challenges professional women face in their careers. I would love Sam to interview Alex Morgan and speak about the turmoil of being at the pinnacle of one's career and how it often invites the worst forms of harassment from those threatened by WOSO. One suggestion: please include asking non-players of color about their perspectives on representation in our sport and discuss, as allies, how to actively support systemic change. Grateful for the caliber of this interview. Sam Mewis and her team embody the professionalism that the industry should strive for.

[@USWNT.REIGN.T.V]

Definitely looking forward to this one video!!! Can’t live without this channel ❤ love your playing Sanchez!!!!!❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@vu8200]

This was such a great interview, knew that VA did her wrong during the WC, hope Emma will give her another shot, also happy that she did have peeps there at the WC to talk to, knew she would go to Kelley, they had a strong relationship on the Spirit and Kel in general is such a great human to talk to. I really hope Sanchez knows she can get back to the USWNT. great job Sammy

[@heidiayers2124]

Great questions!!! Asking about her feelings being traded unexpectedly . Her friendships that fuels her game. The laughs! sooo good 👍 ❤ The channel

[@bkirstie]

love this honesty ashley

[@JohnnySoccer1977]

So Vlatko did to Sanchez what Berhalter did to Gio Reyna. Only difference now is that Berhalter still has a job. I’m glad Emma Hayes is now on the helm bc she’s not allergic to midfielders that have technical ability. Hopefully Ash gets another shot to compete for a spot on this National team.

[@AngelCityFClovr]

I was so disappointed when Ashley didn't play in the WC and happy we have a new coach now :)

[@Chelseawfc487]

I really hope that Emma will take Ash into serious consideration for the Olympics.

[@MB10-x1g]

Amazing interview. Ms Sanchez gracias por tu honestidad ❤. Keep the good work Sam 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏🥰

[@liacarson1808]

Ashley is an incredible player and person. I remember watching her back in U-17 and being awed by her talent. I just knew she’d be a player to watch into the future. Impressed with her honesty about how difficult the World Cup was for her and hopefully she gets another look with the USWNT because she’d be such an asset to the team. Great interview, Sam!

[@Arctic-void-z7f]

This is a nice surprise so I only found this channel last week or something can I already binged watched every of the friendly videos and been watching a podcast as well.. and Sam your just a goat

[@ryleeramos9411]

Love Sanchez! Love how she was open to talk about challenging experiences, and be vulnerable. When I heard her say she never had to think about what her family had to do to come to the U.S., the first thing I thought of was PRIVILEGE. Glad she’s realizing how fortunate she is and how her roots are important to her. Great interview!

[@T.R.75]

one of my favorite players. great interview. happy shes doing well with NC.

[@david_209_13]

I've been waiting for weeks to watch this interview because I knew it would be good ! 💯

[@01FozzyS]

I love Ashley's game. I hope she can get herself back into the WNT mix.

[@erobinsonii]

Currently she would be competing for that #10 attacking mid with Rose Lavelle, Jayden Shaw and Croix Bethune. If you had to pick 2, would one of them be Ashley Sanchez?

[@PaulLe-jk4uq]

Great interview with Ashley, Sam, thanks! Ashley, you are one BEAUTIFUL young lady, dear!!!🌹. I have only one suggestion or encouragement which is easy to follow but it requires lot of sweat and grit to carry you to the top and I know you know it already! Practice, practice and practice ALL THE SKILLS THERE ARE IN SOCCER : Dribbling, Passing, shooting , heading, ball control, fast running, stamina training…. are a few to mention, not only can do good it, but master the skills sufficiently and FAR superior to the next girls. There is no short cut for this. There are VERY FEW people endowed with natural talent and physical strength, Majority of us must work HARD FOR IT. When you’re there, you’ll stand out in the way you play, assist and scoring…. Then you’ll see no one can ignore you anymore for USWNT, clubs ….. and so on … !!! Best wishes Ashley, the SKY IS YOUR LIMIT, if you want to reach out for it!!! 🌹💖⚽️🇺🇸🤩🤩

[@UTxTheArchangel]

Ash talking about her, Soph, Nay, and Trin grouping together confirms what another player said. About how the older players stayed around the older players, and the young players stayed together. That separation between the groups is seen as one of the reasons things went bad. But it is good to hear Sonnet and Kelley hung out with the younger players. As for Ash getting traded, I was shocked and kinda heartbroken. Her and Trin have such good chemistry.

[@ocean1573]

Very insightful and very honest interview.

[@couturecriminal8330]

People claim Alex Morgan should be in the squad but forget that someone like Ashley Sanchez has a lot to give to the USWNT and is on the rise along with Midge Purce and Ashley Hatch the competition for the USWNT in the attack is absolutely elite.👌

[@phengvue21]

Great interview!!!!! Keep your head up!!!

[@julianpeavy303]

Learning Vlatko told her she wouldnt play is insane

[@lindafischer3123]

Exactly. Why did he choose her if he wasn’t going to use her?

[@annettegirmus-orford1263]

I remember watching and was so confuse as to why Ashley wasn't playing. I hope she gets called into the WNT very soon.

[@buckman234]

Trinity and Ashley, the "Mario and Luigi" of the NWSL. 😂

[@yadthink]

I love your interviews, Sam! I just subscribed, btw! I miss seeing you on the pitch, but at the same time, I enjoy getting to know you and the people you talk with in more depth than I would otherwise. This particular interview was fantastic; both of you really shined. Kudos to Ashley for her openness and grace in reliving the past year. Go Bruins! Shout out to the softball team in game one of the college world series today!

[@WomensGameMiB]

🥹 Go Bruins!!!

[@RJ420NL]

That Ashley isn’t starting for the WNT is dumb. She has so much skill. I just do not comprehend. The WNT keeps using players who are not while not using the best. No surprise they keep struggling. I was appalled with the latest roster.

[@alexjvee6836]

I think the NT is doing a bit better than last year for the most part. But who would you replace on the NT for Sanchez?

[@erobinsonii]

@@alexjvee6836 Agreed. The midfield of Lavelle/Shaw, Horan and Albert/Coffey is definitely better. Last year so many forwards were injured it's not really fair to say, but the current group is way better. Defenders and keepers are the equal.

[@candacelong7643]

@@erobinsonii Exactly. I don’t know why people keep referencing the WC like it was a fair representation. Half the frontline were injured. Trin could barely get any time due to fighting for mins with Thompson who doesn’t even get called up anymore. Vlatko favored Thompson over Rodman. Morgan was absent, no goals and no presence and we were relying on a young player in Smith who was on a big stage for the first time

[@erobinsonii]

@@candacelong7643 Agreed! 👍

[@TheChosenOne42513]

You made us proud Sam mewis ❤❤❤

[@alansmithee8831]

Hello Sam. Ashley was so lovely and fun and reminded me of the kids of the family I stayed with in Texas, but they would be a bit older now. They had ancestors who were there before the English speakers, so were thought of as half Mexican, though they were true Texans. Their older half brothers were half Mexican, but their mum had died. I spoke more Spanish from learning French and hearing Spanish songs and their dad was embarrassed an English youngster had picked up more of his ancestors' language and determined to teach them. My pal and I decided to teach them football ⚽️ and cricket 🏏, which was odd with a baseball bat. Did you spot that the quick T20 cricket World Cup is in US? I recommend to US viewers a Catherine Warr video on the time UK beat US at baseball ⚾️, it being the season for that too.

[@rodgod00]

Amazing episode! Please get sydney leroux on it!!!

[@djbit2007]

You deserve to be on the National team. The most creative midfielder adding that latin spice to the game. Hopefully the new coach see's past the BS.

[@couturecriminal8330]

People claim Alex Morgan should be in the squad but forget that someone like Ashley Sanchez has a lot to give for the USWNT and is on the rise along with Midge Purce and Ashley Hatch the competition for the USWNT is absolutely elite.👌

[@dkanwischer8479]

This is my current fav Friendly. Until the Queen of the net comes this week, of course ;) Ashley's adversity was just... wow 💪

[@David-yy9kl]

#FreeSanchez

[@kylejensen727]

Please have Esther Gonzalez on the podcast!

[@mamachristinasstorytime1327]

I always thought she was so pretty and a good player. After this interview she seems like such a sweet chill chick also

[@Mickey-ks7tv]

The trade system in the NWSL is so cruel...one of the reasons its hard to like that league they treat players so awfully

[@spenny1mac]

Ashley needs a call up!!! She hasn’t gotten a fair chance

[@tashrif46]

We need an interview with Ellen White

[@chriswawiorka8388]

like to know why she was told she wouldnt play

[@He12356]

You can tell the hurt in her voice when talking about he wc 😭

[@MainorMaciel]

Leaving Sanchez in the best was one of the biggest mistakes Vlatko did among many others. I strongly believe that there is a spot already waiting for Ashley in the USNWT.

[@n00dledancer]

WTF is going on at USSF!? Again a player was told at the outset of a WC they’re not going to get playing time!? I’m aghast by how thoroughly the USWNT was set up to fail. I felt kinda bad for Andonovski, but now I’m rooting for KC to flame out.

[@r2dad282]

You're my favorite USWNT channel. Great interview, including some difficult emotional Nats questions. For future interviews it would be good to drag out technical specifics like "What would you tell your 9YO self to improve technically?". There are young girls out there. Maybe they're not watching this channel but their parents and coaches are, and would like to pass along your wisdom and experience. Most youth coaches can't help these kids because they don't know what they don't know. "How important is it to be two-footed?". "Which skill have you recently picked up, where and when do you like to use it?" "Which type of pass do you rely on, and which do you find hardest to master?" I realize you have a limited amount of time, but maybe links to a patreon channel with extra content would be good?

[@WomensGameMiB]

Thanks for these suggestions! Great ideas.

[@bkirstie]

meh, that would be boring. i prefer interviews from players. parents ain’t gonna watch this for their kids.

[@r2dad282]

@kirstieb8025 Maybe you're not a parent so don't see the utility of this, but I assure you there are parents out there who are looking for assistance. Our daughter, who should have be a 10, complained she never got service and insisted on playing as a 6 or 8 so she would at least get touches during a game. Played club at uni, all through grad school, still loves and plays the game--that was the goal. But coaches couldn't improve her touch, vision, skills even though she always played on club travel teams and on her HS team. We waste so much talent in this country because parents aren't connected ex-pros and we just have to deal with the imperfect pay-to-play system.

[@michEjo-j4l]

I'm struggling to understand how you can make a World Cup roster, and "the team that chose you" tells you your not going to play. I noticed that in different sports the coaches who rotate players in and out win the most.

[@anoopgopikala8237]

Nice ❤❤❤

[@mem5860]

I am dude i have never expect to hear the reason Messi is somebody Idol is because he is "cute and quiet" hahahaha too funny.(He is my favorite player for other reasons obviously haha). I think ash season was just a distraction of the frustation of the world cup. Then when it end ,then she could adress the situation, awesome podcast.

[@hearmeRoaR10]

Vlatko was not smart!! She belongs back on the NT

[@3aRome]

She can’t defend which is why she didn’t play as much as I love her

[@bkirstie]

oh shit she was TOLD she would be a big impact? that’s not cool. i think vlatko chickened out.

[@MarkPress-ge9nm]

Vlatko will forever be known at the worst coach the uswnt has ever had...so disappointed we had to waste 4 years on him

[@bkirstie]

he’s a good guy tho

[@beachliving3127]

@@bkirstie Nice Guys finish last. We want someone who may just be OK but a winner.

[@paulycatz]

@@bkirstie Is he? Telling players they won't get any minutes but you still need to train at 110% seems a bit cruel to me.

[@MalloryCurtis]

i don’t understand why vlatko would put sanchez on the roster just to tell her before the first game she won’t play..

[@erobinsonii]

Probably because he decided to start Savannah DeMelo (I'm not making a value judgement). Plus they were waiting for Rose to get healthy, which she did (but yellow carded out). I think Vlatko was insecure with a few of his choices, especially Alana Cook.

[@msstopgo]

Agree. It makes no sense. He was insecure about his tactics and his selections. Hope Ash gets another chance to the USWNT

[@candacelong7643]

@@erobinsoniiTo be fair he was dealt a tough hand, but he didn’t make it easy for himself. Becky going down was huge because I preferred her over Cook and both Krueger and Davidson weren’t ready. Still, the backline wasn’t the problem. It was an unhealthy frontline and weak midfield

[@teejyeet9403]

Imagine the goals that could’ve been scored at the World Cup with a Sanchez and Rodman duo.. big Vlatko fail

[@bkirstie]

nah, it was a team issue bro

[@teejyeet9403]

@@bkirstie lol so you think starting Savannah Demelo who had no experience with the players around her was a better option than Ashley Sanchez who had way more experience with the other players starting games? To not even play her and Rodman together was a terrible move. At the time they were one of the best duos in the NWSL. And months prior to that, Sanchez was rose Lavelles backup and was playing pretty well with the team during roses absence. I agree there was team chemistry issues but the decisions made by vlatko were not good.

[@candacelong7643]

@@teejyeet9403Rodman wasn’t even getting time. Vlatko preferred Thompson to her… Trin didn’t know if she was starting or coming off the bench from game to game. Vlatko had no patience for any mistake she made

[@teejyeet9403]

@@candacelong7643 didn’t she start the three group games?

[@candacelong7643]

@@teejyeet9403 I definitely remember Alyssa starting a game or two and even then Vlatko had short leashes for both. Neither could get a rhythm. He was too panicky. A few mistakes and one was pulled for the other

[@rynejones8513]

lol i never saw that burping tiktok thats hilarious

[@beggyberry]

I hadn’t either! Really funny😂

[@joycefortin7877]

Two HUGE mistakes by V.A. Leaving both Ashley's off the team.Sanchez and Hatch.

[@bkirstie]

what forward is hatch better than?

[@candacelong7643]

Hatch??

[@IngridAndDjuna]

We love Sammy, but she and the rest of the female players have a blind spot when it comes to the media director Aaron. Media directors shouldn’t be interrupting the players and the coaches during press conferences, to tell them what to say. You’ve all been bamboozled from within. It’s hard to respect and enjoy a team who are actively being controlled by a media guy? I hope Emma fires him because we can’t support this USWNT until they can be themselves.

[@bkirstie]

what is he doing?

[@bkirstie]

sam, would you ever want to talk about the abuse of paul riley?

[@megadago100]

The US national team did her wrong! I think she should play for the Mexican national team instead. I think they'll appreciate her talent more than USWNT.

[@mannaa675]

No wonder they lost the wc and lost in the midfield that also had no connection

[@min2oly]

Soccer is so subjective and coaches all have their own disfunction. That basketball players daughter has no business in the game, she sucks and is nothing w/o someone constantly feeding her the ball.

[@dtdtdtdtification]

i'm an old-ish ucla alum, but being able to see BOTH of them as Bruins (and so many others) was awesome. so cool to see so many Bruins in the pros