Orlando Pride defender Kerry Abello (left) and Washington Spirit forward Trinity Rodman chase after the ball during the first half of the NWSL championship at CPKC Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. on Nov. 23, 2024. Reed Hoffmann/AP
The new season of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) is set to start this Friday night, bringing with it an air of anticipation and excitement as the league continues to evolve both on and off the field. The offseason was marked by significant developments, including a record-breaking player transfer and strategic partnerships that underscore the league’s growth under Commissioner Jessica Berman’s leadership.
“A lot of what we’re focused on in the future is about building infrastructure, knowing that we need to control our own destiny,” Berman shared with NPR’s All Things Considered.
The NWSL is experiencing unprecedented viewer engagement, having reached over 17 million viewers last season, and is in the second year of a monumental $240 million broadcast agreement. Yet, as the season unfolds, the spotlight will return to the field, with five key questions set to define the 2025 season.
What version of the NWSL will fans see this year?
As the 2025 season approaches, there’s speculation about whether the league will maintain its reputation for unpredictability, where any team can emerge victorious. This element of “chaos” has been a hallmark, making the league exciting with its mix of parity and physical play. For instance, the league witnessed surprising outcomes in recent seasons, with lower-ranked teams rising to claim championships.
Teams like Gotham FC, Orlando Pride, and Washington Spirit have transformed through strategic drafts, bringing in talents such as Jenna Nighswonger, Emily Sams, and Croix Bethune. However, the NWSL’s recent abolition of the draft shifts the focus to attracting top talent globally.
Orlando Pride’s acquisition of Zambian forward Barbra Banda and the Kansas City Current’s signing of Malawian striker Temwa Chaŵinga underscore this shift, with both players making significant impacts last season. These developments have even inspired a documentary, For The Win, on Amazon Prime.
What were the biggest offseason moves?
The offseason witnessed several significant player moves, the most notable being Naomi Girma’s million-dollar transfer to Chelsea FC in England. This marked a substantial loss for San Diego Wave, compounded by the departure of Alex Morgan and the trade of Jaedyn Shaw. The team faces a rebuilding phase after failing to make the 2024 playoffs.
Other significant moves include Kerolin Nicoli Israel Ferraz’s transfer to Manchester City and Jenna Nighswonger’s signing with Arsenal. Meanwhile, Trinity Rodman remains a key player for Washington Spirit, albeit dealing with an injury, and the league’s all-time leading scorer Lynn Biyendolo has joined Seattle Reign.
The league is in transition. Who will lead the next generation?
With several key retirements, a new generation is emerging to lead the league. Forward Ally Sentnor, a promising talent from the Utah Royals, made a strong impression at the SheBelieves Cup. Yazmeen Ryan, now with Houston Dash, also showed potential, and her partnership with Diana Ordóñez is one to watch.
Defender of the Year Emily Sams, MVP Temwa Chaŵinga, and Washington’s Croix Bethune are other players poised to make an impact this season. With no major international tournaments, these players will focus on their club performances, aiming for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup roster.
What will the San Diego Wave look like after Alex Morgan?
San Diego stands at the forefront of the league’s evolution, having recently appointed former Arsenal Women’s coach Jonas Eidevall. The team has recruited top French talents like Kenza Dali and Delphine Cascarino, along with María Sánchez, who could be an MVP contender if she leads the team back to the top.
Are we on Trinity Rodman transfer watch?
While there is no immediate transfer in sight, Trinity Rodman’s future remains a topic of interest. As a prominent figure in the USWNT and the NWSL, her potential move abroad could follow Naomi Girma’s path. Rodman’s historic $1.1 million contract with Washington Spirit sets a precedent for what she could command in the international market.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
