How the NWSL and Naomi Girma’s record-breaking transfer are reshaping global soccer | OneFootball

Women's soccer has gained momentum. There is no more field, there is no other scenario in which at least one paradigm is not being broken. Women's soccer changed: if discussions used to occur based on visibility and equality, today the figures talked for themselves-mostly by referring to the market. The movement that has given shape to women's soccer found the epicenter of its development and evolution in the United States; basically, between NWSL and the USWNT.

A key component of San Diego Wave FC, Defender, and USWNT star Naomi Girma became the first female soccer player to break through the $1 million barrier in the transfer market. The new €1 million contract with Chelsea symbolizes a new level for women's soccer.

At 24, Girma cements herself as the best defender in the world, bar none, which breaks barriers and redefines a market. Mention of Franz Beckenbauer as the first man to pull it off shows just how fast women's soccer is evolving — and not recently. This is a watershed negotiation that proves clubs are willing to pull out all stops to attract talent.

The NWSL effect

Of the seven largest transfers in women's soccer, three involve NWSL players. That is no accident. The American league has been a cradle of talent and a platform that projects players onto the international stage. Take the case of Rachel Kundananji, who, leaving Madrid CFF for Bay FC, comes in with a transfer price laced full of performance-related bonuses worth $788,000. Such investment does not only draw eyes toward the league but does so on new grounds when negotiating the contracts.

Another big example is Bárbara Banda, who joined Orlando Pride for $740,000 to engrave her name as one of the most powerful forwards in the NWSL. Banda was not only good individually but she brought many important titles for the club-a proof that such million-dollar value is not just a gamble but a strategic investment. USWNT Stars in Raising Women's Soccer Awareness

The USWNT's influence is much deeper than just on-field performances, as their roster boasts true global icons and is thus extremely important in the appreciation of women's soccer. Along with Naomi Girma, Lindsey Horan is another good example of how the USWNT projects its athletes into major leagues. After being on loan at Lyon, Horan signed with the French club and reinforced the presence of American players in Europe's top leagues.

The success and visibility of the USWNT in big international tournaments have created an environment where American players are seen as a sure investment. It is for this reason that values in the transfer market explode.

Investments and record-breaking transfers

Yet growth is not alone in America; Chelsea, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, too make their increase as witnessed through a series of transfer deals this current window-the inclusion into their folds, Keira Walsh, Lena Oberdorf, Pernille Harder-notwithstanding, for which their own transfers become just a preface. And to it, too-the NWSL, again with unparalleled vigour both from the eyes and in fiscal terms-commands the spear in this women's game revolution.

Transfers in millions and lucrative contracts are symptoms of a greater trend: the realization of women's soccer as a possible industry. Growing number of fans in stadiums, broadcast deals, and high-profile sponsorships mean the sport has turned into a goldmine. Not to mention other leagues that continue strengthening, such as the FA Women's Super League considered among the best leagues of soccer along with the NWSL.

The future of women's soccer

More investments have been poured in, and it is just about the flip side-where barriers continue to get broken and limits get redefined. Naomi Girma's transfer was the beginning of a new era, but she was only the tip of the iceberg. With more visibility and competitiveness, other players are expected to reach similar or even higher numbers in no time.

Moreover, it's not only players who suffered from these transfers. Such transfers of famous names changed the perception, boosted audiences, and attracted investors anew. More specifically, women's soccer is a business in development.