2025 NWSL season begins after busy player offseason
The 2025 NWSL season starts on Saturday, following a busy offseason marked by significant player movement. Notably, three U.S. women's national team players moved to European clubs, shifting the focus from intraleague dynamics to the global landscape of women's soccer. Lynn Biyendolo, Yazmeen Ryan, and Gabi Portillo were among players who changed teams within the NWSL, while Naomi Girma's record transfer to Chelsea highlighted the growing competition between the NWSL and European leagues for top talent. This offseason also saw teams like the Houston Dash and North Carolina Courage undergo significant changes. The NWSL continues to attract international players and coaches, enhancing its competitiveness. Recent rule changes, including an increased salary cap and more international roster spots, aim to maintain balance while allowing teams to innovate and grow in the evolving landscape of women's soccer.