Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
With the 2025 National Women’s Soccer League season starting this Friday, it’s time to look at some of the new players who could soon be household names. Let’s assess five of the most exciting arrivals, analyzing what they might bring to their teams.
Rebeca Bernal (Washington Spirit)
With Andi Sullivan out injured, Washington went and ensured they had options in defensive midfield during the offseason. First they brought in Narumi Miura from North Carolina Courage, then they signed Bernal from Monterrey of Liga MX Femenil. Bernal can also play in central defense, and that versatility is a nice bonus, though at 5’6 tall, height could be an issue for her as an NWSL centerback. She played defensive midfield for Mexico in their famous 2-0 Gold Cup win over the USA last year, and subbed on in the same position for Washington in their recent Challenge Cup victory over Orlando Pride, so that will likely be where she plays most of her soccer for the Spirit.
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