After Chelsea signed another US national player, Alyssa Thompson, managed by Chelsea's ex-manager Emma Hayes, in international terms, let's look at those US national players who have graced the WSL. More and more USA players have moved across the pond to the WSL in recent years.
During COVID-19, there was a rise in loan spells to the WSL from the NSWL due to COVID-19 restrictions and football being back in England before the US. Since then, more players have moved, and the WSL has diversified. The NWSL is seeing the effects of losing its top players to Chelsea and the drawbacks of not having a men’s side associated with it.
Also, since the Champions League and European league football development, it has become a more desirable location for the future development of women’s football for players.
Another reason they moved is that there is more competition and titles to be won in the league, the League Cup, the FA Cup, and, for some, the Champions League. The stakes are higher, and they have diverse competitions to play in.
Also, the UEFA Women’s Europa Cup was introduced.
Another reason that could make USWNT and NWSL players head to England is that the WSL will offer them better wages. Being paid what players deserve makes any player consider moving to England. The salary cap of the NWSL might drive a lot of players to the WSL, where they will get paid more than what they are used to. This is why some want the NWSL to let go of the $3.3 million salary cap.
This is mainly because the WSL’s salary cap is 40% of revenue. This 40% includes parent club income, meaning clubs with male equivalents have more to spend.
USWNT defender Jenna Nighswonger said, “Playing in England is something I’ve always wanted to do. So sometimes when an opportunity presents itself, even if you’re happy at a club, you must leap of faith.”
Emma Hayes, the national side manager who managed Chelsea for 12 years, will likely speak highly of the league.
Emily Fox traded in the US lifestyle for the UK one.
Fox said, "Here, football is everything, everything is about football, and the culture is all about football.
"The first time I went to the Emirates watching it and then the first time I played in it, it is so surreal. Especially when my parents came and watched me.
"They didn't grow up playing football so it is more of a pinch-me moment when you have your family come and you are in these amazing stadiums having chants, having sold-out crowds.
"That is when I realised this is pretty amazing and such a unique experience."
Naomi Girma moved to Chelsea because she wanted to challenge herself and push out of her comfort zone, believing the WSL and Chelsea's winning culture offered a top environment for her to learn, grow, and win more trophies, including the Women's Champions League
Manchester United keeper, Phallon Tullis-Joyce said: "This league is crazy -- I love it! Every league that I've played in has its own strengths and attributes but playing the WSL, there are some incredible players, incredible teams and the tactics that are involved are just amazing. It demands you to be the best version of yourself. Even now with London City Lionesses coming up and you see some of the players they're bringing in, it's very exciting to be a part of this league."
It looks like the main draw for players is not only the clubs, but the atmosphere and football culture plus the competition and trophies that are up for grabs and some could say more highly acclaimed titles.
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