Mia Fishel’s Career and Transfer Considerations
Mia Fishel, a forward for the United States women’s national soccer team (USWNT), is currently engaged in negotiations with several National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) teams regarding a potential summer transfer from Chelsea FC, according to information obtained by ESPN.
At just 24 years old, Fishel is looking to secure a spot as a key player for an NWSL side to enhance her chances of appearing more frequently with the USWNT, particularly as she aims for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
International Experience and Setbacks
Having earned three caps to date, Fishel scored her first and only senior international goal during her second appearance in 2023. Unfortunately, her progress has been hindered by a torn ACL that she suffered during training with the national team while preparing for the 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup.
However, she has made her return to the pitch for Chelsea and participated in recent international matches as one of the overage players with the USWNT under-23 squad, facing Germany’s U-23 team.
Coaching Perspectives
The USWNT head coach, Emma Hayes, expressed her support for Fishel’s decision to explore opportunities with NWSL clubs, highlighting that being on the bench for the senior team isn’t as beneficial as gaining valuable experience elsewhere.
“Yes, she could come in, sit on the bench for [the senior team], but it’s much better for her to go and play in Germany and get the experiences so that these players are tracking to compete in the place that we want them to come 2027,”
Hayes remarked last month.
Achievements and Background
Chelsea’s roster is burgeoning with talent, including USWNT forward Catarina Macario and Colombian striker Mayra Ramírez, who recently joined the team for a record transfer fee, along with Australian star Sam Kerr returning from injury.
Prior to joining Chelsea, Fishel had a noteworthy career in Liga MX Femenil, having been signed by Tigres after a successful college career where she excelled at UCLA. She was the standout scorer in the 2022 Apertura season with 17 goals, leading Tigres to the championship, and continued her success with 13 goals in the following Clausura season before her transfer to England.
Draft History and Career Reflections
Fishel was originally selected as the fifth overall pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft by the Orlando Pride, following her decision to leave UCLA early, but chose to embark on her professional journey in Mexico instead. This decision came during a tumultuous time for the Pride, which saw the recent hiring of her former college coach, Amanda Cromwell, who faced disciplinary issues shortly thereafter.
Reflecting on her career choices, Fishel acknowledged,
“When I got drafted, it wasn’t necessarily the choice I wanted…If I didn’t go to Tigres in Mexico, I have no doubt that I would not be at Chelsea now. I strongly believe in that.”
Looking Forward
With her sights set on an impactful NWSL role and the upcoming World Cup, Fishel remains a player to watch as discussions with potential teams unfold.
