Highlight Deals in the NWSL Off-Season: Girma’s Historic Move and More

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January’s transfer window never fails to thrill soccer enthusiasts with unexpected player movements and changes, especially this year in women’s soccer with several high-profile transfers such as Naomi Girma’s million dollar transfer and other noteworthy moves both inside and beyond the Women’s Super League (WSL).

Naomi Girma

Naomi Girma’s transfer has undeniably set a new benchmark in women’s soccer. Moving from San Diego Wave to Chelsea, the USWNT defender’s $1 million transfer fee not only marks her as the most expensive transfer in the history of women’s soccer but also eclipses previous records, such as Racheal Kundananji’s transfer. Girma is now set to stay with the London club until at least the 2029 season, underlining Chelsea’s long-term investment in her talents.

Kerolin

In another eye-catching move, Kerolin left North Carolina Courage to join Manchester City. Having decided not to renew her contract with the Courage, she entered free agency before making the switch, becoming the first Brazilian woman to sign with the Sky Blues.

Jenna Nighswonger

Another notable USWNT player to make the leap to the WSL this season is Jenna Nighswonger. Her transition to Arsenal for £80,000 ($100,000) has sparked interest, especially as she reunites with fellow national team member Emily Fox, setting the stage for exciting matchups against former teammates in the WSL.

Mariana Larroquette

Mariana Larroquette took a different path, moving on loan from Orlando Pride to Newell’s Old Boys Women in Argentina. Despite a shorter stay at Orlando, she managed to leave her mark by contributing to the team’s success in the 2024 season.

While these transfers indicate a trend of talent moving abroad from the NWSL, the league isn’t just seeing departures. It has also made significant additions, drawing players from the WSL and other leagues, thus maintaining a competitive and diverse roster of talent.

Is the NWSL Only Losing Talent?

Although key players such as Julia Bianchi, Ally Cook and others have taken on new challenges elsewhere across continents, the NWSL has continued to attract talent by signing players from WSL or elsewhere – showing just how fluid women’s soccer transfers are.

In recent weeks, NWSL teams and players have been hard at work preparing for what promises to be an exhilarating year in Women’s soccer. We have witnessed both departures and arrivals occupy headlines; showing once more why our league remains such an essential platform within women’s soccer.