I followed this USWNT closely since 2011 and I've seen a lot of concerning things. I was hoping they'd be resolved by 2023 but apparently not.
The issue with Vladko is that he was successful in the NWSL which is where all the women play in the US. It is their domestic league, and he has done well there, credit to him for that. But since being promoted to the head coaching job of the US women's team he has
- seen his side (mostly old vets) succumb to the Olympics against Canada, a team that was considered "lucky" to win with outrageous offensive inefficiency. Afterwards he saw the writing on the wall and put some younger players in, which was what the team sorely needed.
- seen one of the worst winters a US national team could have in 22-jan 23 where they lost 3? in a row in friendlies, something that had not been done since the 90's. The US lost to England, Spain and Germany. They later won against Germany the second time a few days later, but the damage was done.
- injuries have greatly impacted this team, at least 3 players (Mallory Swanson, Macario, and Sauerbrunn) were ineligible due to injury and others like Sam Mewis were unable to play either.
Going in everyone was teasing about how it was the US vs the World, or how the US would coast easily to a three-peat. But those following this team closely know that the injuries plus Vladko would not bode well.
Also it should be noted that no country even the vaulted US has ever won 3 WC's in a row (although the sample size is small with only 9 or so world cups)