Player Transfers Impacting the NWSL Landscape

Thompson faced a pivotal moment in her career when she decided to leave Angel City for Chelsea, a move that was both surprising and anticipated. With strong ties to Los Angeles and a significant presence in the NWSL, her transfer reflected Chelsea’s need for a winger, positioning the 20-year-old as a valuable solution. Despite her capability to dominate the left wing, transitioning to European soccer introduces a set of new challenges. Thompson committed to a five-year contract and joined fellow USWNT teammates Cat Macario and Naomi Girma at Chelsea.

In her inaugural season with Chelsea, Thompson is gradually finding her footing, exhibiting increased comfort with each match. “I feel like every game is different,” she remarked in November. “All of these teams come from different leagues, and the varied styles of play have enhanced my tactical understanding of the game. It has allowed me to identify areas for improvement against different defensive setups, showcasing more versatility in my play. Experiencing this every week in the Champions League is truly exciting.”

Since joining Chelsea, Thompson has secured a starting position, contributing three goals across four Women’s Super League (WSL) appearances. She played a crucial role in the Blues’ last match of the year, assisting their 2-1 victory over VfL Wolfsburg in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

**Grade: A-**

Shaw has reached a peak performance level, owing much of her success to an environment that fosters her growth. Initially, when she transitioned from the San Diego Wave to the North Carolina Courage, there was considerable speculation surrounding her decision. It took time for her to establish a consistent presence on the pitch, which led to her exclusion from Emma Hayes’ USWNT roster for two consecutive camps.

However, everything shifted when Shaw joined New York City. Although her move to Gotham was abrupt, it proved to be a serendipitous change. She exhibited newfound confidence and regained her place on Hayes’ radar, earning call-ups in the last two camps of 2025. Shaw’s swift transitions—two moves within just eight months—are uncommon in the NWSL, yet they were timely in her case.

One of her standout moments this year occurred in the NWSL quarterfinals when she scored her first career playoff goal and provided an assist that propelled Gotham past Kansas City Current in a remarkable upset. Her viral declaration, “underdog, my ass,” resonated with fans and fueled the team’s journey through the semifinals and ultimately to the final, where they triumphed over the Washington Spirit to secure the 2025 NWSL Championship.

**Grade: A**

In contrast, Fishel’s journey has taken her from Chelsea to the NWSL, where she joined Seattle Reign FC seeking increased playing time and a clearer role on a less crowded roster, all with an eye on the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. However, her ongoing recovery from an ACL injury has limited her playing time, even following her transfer.

As is often the case, successful transitions take time. While Fishel has made only a modest impact in the NWSL thus far, the potential for a more significant contribution remains once she achieves full health and integrates more into the Reign’s starting lineup. Whether she can regain visibility on Hayes’ radar remains to be seen.

**Grade: B-**

Sentnor embodies versatility and skill, ensuring her impact regardless of her location, whether in the NWSL or abroad. During her time with Utah, she exerted considerable effort despite the team’s struggles at the bottom of the NWSL standings. Her record-setting move to Kansas City for $600,000 provided an opportunity to join a talented team alongside many fellow USWNT players.

Although she cherished her time in Utah, where she earned her first professional contract, Sentnor sought new challenges, particularly in light of the competitive nature of the USWNT frontline. Having been named U.S. Soccer Young Female Player of the Year in 2024 and the first overall pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft, she has successfully begun to acclimate with the Current, flourishing as a goal-scorer, assister, and playmaker.

**Grade: B+**