As the 2025 NWSL season opens, let’s take a moment to acknowledge how players who have played overseas are coming or returning to the NWSL. Notable names, such as Jenna Nighswonger, Crystal Dunn, and Naomi Girma, have fled from the NWSL to gain a taste of overseas soccer. Despite this, a great number of American players remain in the NWSL. The NWSL has also witnessed an influx of diverse ethnicities joining the league. Here, we’ll detail the journeys of the myriad of players coming or returning to the NWSL after playing in Europe.
Ali Riley
Riley began her career with the WPS, was drafted by FC Gold Pride, and then transferred to Western NY Flash. With the WPS’s folding, Riley played overseas for clubs including FC Rosengård, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich. It wasn’t until 2022 that Riley would play on American soil again. She rejoined the NWSL and has played for Angel City FC ever since.
Kylie Nadaner (née Strom)
Despite facing rejection in her early career with the Boston Breakers, Strom has demonstrated true resilience. After spending two years with Sparta Prague and Atletico Madrid, Strom found herself receiving a spot with the Orlando Pride. Strom played a pivotal role in Pride’s outstanding 2024 season and aims to keep Pride at the top in the new season.
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