The National Women’s Soccer League Transfer Window
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has officially wrapped up its transfer window, concluding with a notable milestone: Lizbeth Jacqueline Ovalle’s transfer to Orlando Pride, which broke records as the highest fee for a female player at $1.5 million, according to sources from ESPN. In addition to this landmark move, various high-profile transfers took place, influencing both the NWSL and the aspirations of players hoping to earn spots on the U.S. women’s national team. Although the window is closed for new signings, outgoing transfers and trades within the league are still permissible. This prompts a closer examination of which player relocations will prove beneficial for their careers in the context of future prospects.
Making History with Ovalle’s Transfer
Ovalle, nicknamed “La Maga” or “The Magician”, is celebrated for her mesmerizing style of play, including a viral scorpion-kick goal for Tigres this past season and a pivotal strike that led Mexico to its first victory over the U.S. on American soil last year. With her move to the NWSL at age 25, she has the opportunity to broaden her exposure internationally. For her to effectively transition into the Orlando Pride, she will need to establish herself as a key player, especially with the lineup currently featuring soccer icon Marta. The recent injury to Barbra Banda heightens the urgency for Ovalle’s role within a team that has struggled to score, generating the lowest number of goals among the top seven teams.
Evaluating Transfer Success
Grade: A — The pressure from a record transfer fee will certainly be present, but Ovalle’s skills indicate she could handle the expectations seamlessly.
Grade: B+ for Fishel — Mia Fishel’s rise involves a calculated decision to join Seattle, a move aimed at long-term development, particularly as she eyes a position on the USWNT for the 2027 World Cup. The former Chelsea forward is shifting her focus to gain more consistent playing time after a challenging recovery from an ACL injury, although she has yet to find her rhythm with Seattle, judging from her limited appearances off the bench.
Grade: B+ for Sentnor — Ally Sentnor made a strategic transition from last-place Utah to league leaders Kansas City. While her immediate fit with a stacked roster raises questions, the investment of a record $600,000 signals Kansas’s commitment to her future, guided by coach Vlatko Andonovski. This could facilitate her emergence as a future cornerstone for the team, despite the current competition for playing time.
Grade: B+ for Watt — Ashley Watt’s departure to the expansion team Denver Summit FC marks a historic return to her roots. As she wraps up her season in Orlando, Watt’s role is crucial for the team’s championship defense, and her subsequent move will be significant for establishing Denver’s identity. The hard-working forward is expected to be instrumental in her new role and lead the way for the team’s future.
Grade: A for Sanchez — The return of Sanchez to Tigres from San Diego reflects a positive career shift for her. Despite the somewhat underwhelming circumstances of her exit from San Diego, where she faced intense competition for playing time, her immediate success back at Tigres—having scored five goals already—illustrates the beneficial nature of this transfer.
Looking Ahead
Lastly, the arrival of Cantore from Juventus has seen her quickly adapt to the Spirit, showcasing her scoring ability in crucial games. At 25, she fills an essential spot in the Washington team, which has faced numerous setbacks due to injuries. As the playoffs approach, Cantore may be pivotal in challenging the current dominance of Kansas City in the league.
