United States women’s national team fans have noticed a new trend happening. American players are flocking across the pond with more USWNT players in Europe by the week.
The biggest story in January was Chelsea breaking the bank and spending $1.1 million on Naomi Girma from San Diego Wave FC. This set the record for the most expensive transfer in women’s soccer history.
Two more USWNT players have also left the NWSL as Jenna Nighswonger and Crystal Dunn both departed Gotham FC for European clubs.
Jenna Nighswonger is a Gunner ✍️
The USA international joins the #UWCL quarter-finalists from Gotham FC pic.twitter.com/f1N3876UvR— UEFA Women’s Champions League (@UWCL) January 30, 2025
USWNT defender Crystal Dunn has joined PSG Feminines, the team announced.
— espnW (@espnW) January 31, 2025
Here’s a list of current USWNT players playing their club ball in Europe this year.
USWNT players in Europe 2025
*indicates a transfer that happened this year
- Naomi Girma* — Chelsea
- Catarina Macario — Chelsea
- Mia Fishel — Chelsea
- Emily Fox — Arsenal
- Jenna Nighswonger* — Arsenal
- Lindsey Horan — Lyon
- Korbin Albert — PSG
- Crystal Dunn* — PSG
- Eva Gaetino — PSG
- Lily Yohannes — Ajax
USWNT players going to Europe is nothing new as there seems to be an ebb and flow when you look back in previous years. Some of the biggest stars of the past like Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, Carli Lloyd, Tobin Heath and Sam Mewis all played in England’s Women’s Super League at one point.
Rose Lavelle also played for Manchester City back in the 2020-21 season.
There could be more USWNT players leaving the NWSL soon as top players like Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman and Sam Coffey have been linked to European clubs.
According to @journalism_rp , Chelsea are ready to battle for the signing of Trinity Rodman in the summer. Sophia Wilson, Lily Yohannes and Sakina Karchaoui are also said to be on Chelsea's radar. pic.twitter.com/nugSZwqOZO
— Soccerdonna (@soccerdonna) January 30, 2025
According to @em_sandy , Chelsea are keen to sign a defensive midfielder before the transfer window closes. Sam Coffey is among the potential candidates, however only informal discussions have reportedly taken place. She is currently training in Arizona. pic.twitter.com/2EZhK8Oam9
— Soccerdonna (@soccerdonna) January 28, 2025
It seems that winning gold at the Paris Olympics reminded the world just how talented the Americans are. The increased transfer prices for players is also a positive sign of growth in the women's game.