Could there be more surprises in this season’s winter transfer window? Each day has brought remarkable developments, with moves beyond imagination. One such shock came after Crystal Dunn, who announced her exit from the NWSL just days ago, unexpectedly signed for Paris Saint-Germain. However, it seems that Parisian club fans have mixed feelings about Dunn’s arrival.
After joining NJ/NY Gotham FC as a free agent in December 2023, the 32-year-old has mutually parted ways with the New York-based club after just one season. Her contract was originally set to run until 2026, making the abrupt termination puzzling. Now, what’s even more intriguing is how she ended up at a club like PSG in the first place.
Dunn has signed a contract with the Parisian ladies for at least a couple of seasons that will keep her at the club until 2027. This would at least help her stay in top shape, potentially boosting her chances of making Emma Hayes’ roster for the 2027 World Cup before she ultimately decides to hang up her boots in the later stages of her career.
Of course, this isn’t the first time Dunn has moved to Europe; back in 2017, the veteran defender signed with Chelsea after having spent a couple of years at Washington Spirit. However, the trip to London didn’t last for more than a season, which led Crystal to make a return to NWSL and sign for North Carolina Courage for two years. The year 2020 saw her move to Portland Thorns before signing for NJ/NY Gotham FC in 2023.
Apparently, PSG marks to be the sixth club she has signed for in her career. This clearly suggests that the USWNT defender does bring a lot of experience with herself. Yet, it seems fans aren’t quite as enthusiastic as one might seem them to be regarding the arrival of Dunn.
A halfhearted welcome for Crystal Dunn at PSG!
Paris Saint-Germain officially made the announcement on their social networks regarding the arrival of the ex-NWSL star. However, that only saw Parisian fans rather discuss the club’s turbulent off-pitch situations, while also questioning the signature of the USWNT veteran.
Crystal Dunn s’engage avec le Paris Saint-Germain jusqu’en 2027 !
Le Paris Saint-Germain est heureux d’annoncer l’arrivée de Crystal Dunn. L’internationale américaine sera Rouge et Bleu jusqu’au 30 juin 2027.#WelcomeCrystal pic.twitter.com/luqKkqKQvK
— PSG Féminines (@PSG_Feminines) January 31, 2025
Chelsea signing a player like Naomi Girma is not just about strengthening their defense but also an investment in their future. While PSG also considered following the WSL side’s approach by signing a highly regarded NWSL player, they ultimately landed Crystal Dunn. Though the veteran brings valuable experience, she is clearly not the promising young talent fans were expecting:
“Not great 32 years old but better 2 recruits between 20 and 25 for the future.”
Given that the center-back is 32 right now, she’ll be closing to 35 towards the end of her contract. This clearly suggests that this would be Crystal’s last domestic club. Then again, who knows what’s there in store as she may end up going back to NWSL:
“Welcome to the retirement home.”
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