Damaris Egurrola: A bright international future awaits Lyon star | OneFootball

American born and Spanish raised, Damaris Egurrola is a name of the future in women’s football.

Player Profile

The Basque footballer was born at the turn of the century in Orlando, Florida. Egurrola signed for Athletic Bilbao’s youth academy in 2012, leaping up the ranks to become a core member of Everton’s first team in 2020. A few short months later, Egurrola signed with Lyon for a release clause of £100,000.

The young Spaniard has since competed in the Champions League, the International Champions Cup, and the D1 Arkema.

Egurrola’s play occupies the space between a traditional and modern defensive midfielder. Spanish flare is showcased in her technique and creativity. Yet, physicality and a visionary passing range differentiate her game.

Egurrola acts as the axis of the attack, switching the point of play while granting midfield compatriots freedom to move forward. This season, she has tallied three goals in five starts for Lyon in the French league.

All Doors are Open

Surprisingly, success at club level has yet to translate to the international stage. Egurrola has not been called up to the Spanish national team in more than two years, despite her youth international acclaim. While Spain is loaded in midfield, Egurrola could add a fresh, more mainstream adaptation in the future.

An intriguing alternative to playing for Spain is the United States national team. According to Grant Wahl, preliminary talks are underway to acquire the rights to Egurrola.

The midfielder’s talents would complement the new era of the USWNT. A defensive block combination of Julie Ertz, Andi Sullivan, and Egurrola would limit the strong forward lines of teams such as the Netherlands or Sweden.

If played alone, Egurrola’s defensive security would free Lindsey Horan and Sam Mewis from certain defensive duties. Furthermore, young United States stars Trinity Rodman, Mallory Pugh, Sophia Smith, and Catarina Macario would be the recipients of Egurrola’s pinpoint passes behind defence lines.

Additionally, Egurrola’s line-breaking movement would make the US less predictable. The Lyon playmaker would ensure efficient movement through the midfield and the ability to sever a high press.

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As the women’s game grows, the talent pool widens and game tactics will become more complex. Teams such as Spain, Germany, and France grow ever closer to shattering the USA’s hope of a fifth world title.

Interestingly enough, Egurrola is also eligible to play for the Netherlands national team. This leaves many doors open for her international career. Her timeless style and technical prowess make her one to watch for the future.

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