Seattle Reign FC Secures Mia Fishel
Seattle Reign FC has made headlines by securing a deal with Mia Fishel, a forward for the United States women’s national team, in a significant transfer from Chelsea. This contract, which is set to extend through the 2029 NWSL season, is reportedly valued at $2.5 million, making it one of the most lucrative agreements ever in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). A reliable source informed ESPN that this deal surpasses the previous record held by Mallory Swanson of the Chicago Stars, whose five-year contract signed in early 2024 was worth approximately $2 million.
Details of the Transfer
Details regarding the specifics of Fishel’s transfer from Chelsea remain undisclosed, but an official announcement is anticipated shortly. Fishel’s journey in professional soccer has seen her join Chelsea in 2023, following a successful stint with Tigres, where she earned recognition as the league’s top scorer during her time in Mexico.
International Career and Challenges
At just 24 years of age, Fishel has already represented the USWNT three times, managing to net one goal in her second appearance for the national team. However, her international play has faced interruptions due to a torn ACL injury sustained during training before the 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup, from which she has recently recovered. After returning to play for Chelsea, Fishel participated in international competitions with the USWNT under-23 team, competing against Germany’s under-23s over the recent break.
Background and Career Decisions
Originally hailing from San Diego, Fishel’s commitment to the NWSL comes more than three years after she opted not to join the league directly out of college. In the 2022 NWSL Draft, she was selected as the fifth overall pick by the Orlando Pride, but chose to decline their offer to sign, instead pursuing her career at Tigres. This decision coincided with Orlando hiring her former college coach, Amanda Cromwell, who faced suspension shortly after for alleged misconduct with workplace discrimination policies that ultimately led to her dismissal.
Impact on Seattle Reign FC
With Fishel’s transfer, Seattle Reign FC not only strengthens its roster but also makes a bold statement in the league with a deal that sets a new benchmark for player contracts in the NWSL.
