Naomi Girma, Jenna Nighswonger, Kerolin, Crystal Dunn—nothing but just a few of the most prolific names that have left the NWSL in the offseason for European leagues. Somehow, the trend of quitting the American dream is in the surge as these moves have certainly left the future of the American women’s domestic league hanging in the balance, causing concern among many passionate fans.
Sure, on an individual level, and judging by the deals that have transpired, everything sounds good. For example, Naomi Girma’s record $1 million transfer to Chelsea became the most expensive in women’s history. Other notable moves include Jenna Nighswonger joining Arsenal for $100,000, and former NC Courage star Kerolin and NJ/NY Gotham’s Crystal Dunn moving to Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain as free agents, respectively.
Such events in the January transfer window suggest that the women’s game is indeed alive. However, when it comes to the NWSL’s future, they may have to worry about their own long-term prospects. The fact is, the American women’s domestic league may have lost more talent this month than it gained.
In addition to other high-profile exits, Orlando Pride’s Mariana Larroquette moved to Newell’s Old Boys on loan, while Chicago Stars’ Julia Bianchi and Ally Cook joined SC Internacional and Spokane Zephyr, respectively. Likewise, Houston Dash’s Andressa Alves and Madison Ayson signed with Corinthians and Canberra United, with defender Croix Soto transferred to AFC Toronto, and Stine Ballisager Pedersen left KC Current for Fiorentina.
Furthermore, Racing Louisville’s Parker Goins joined USL Super League’s Tampa Bay Sun, while Quinn and Nikki Stanton made moves to Vancouver Rise FC. Last but not least, San Diego Wave’s Amirah Ali moved to Valencia, and Washington Spirit’s Annaïg Butel and Lena Silano signed with FC Fleury and UD Tenerife.
Such a list clearly suggests that NWSL has indeed lost a lot. On top of that, fans have hardly heard of any significant arrival. No wonder they are in stress over the uncertainty surrounding the league’s future!
NWSL fans aren’t impressed with the prolific exits, as the future of the league comes into question!
“Gotham now sees Jenna Nighswonger and Crystal Dunn leave in the same week. Though Dunn not on the rise like Girma and Nighswonger, it’s another loss for #NWSL.”
“I think it’s great that all the biggest clubs in the world want our USWNT girls, but I’m concerned for the NWSL not being seen as the premier women’s soccer league in the world.”
“NWSL is losing a lot of stars, sheesh.”
“Damn every USWNT player is going to Europe ”
“Emma sent the USWNT to Europe so we can hoop at the World Cup ”
The post NWSL Fans Concerned for the League Amid Naomi Girma, Crystal Dunn, and Others Transfer: “Another Loss” appeared first on EssentiallySports.