Chelsea has signed United States defender Naomi Girma from San Diego Wave for a reported $1.1 million, making her the first million-dollar player in women’s soccer. The transfer fee surpasses the previous world record of $788,000 paid by Bay FC for Zambia striker Rachael Kundananji last year. 

Girma, 24, was unveiled as a Chelsea player on Sunday, ahead of the team’s Women’s Super League match against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge. The defender expressed her excitement about joining the English champions, citing the team’s culture, winning mentality, and top-class environment as key factors in her decision. 

“I’m so happy and really excited to be here. It doesn’t feel real,” Girma said. “There are a lot of things about Chelsea that made me want to come here — the culture, the winning mentality, staff and players. It’s a top environment to learn and grow in. Right now, that’s what I’m looking to do. It was an easy choice for me.” 

Girma brings a wealth of experience to Chelsea, having made her debut for the US national team in 2022 and appearing in 44 games. She was part of the US squad that won the gold medal at the Paris Olympics and was named U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year for 2023. 

Chelsea’s head of women’s football, Paul Green, praised Girma’s qualities, saying, “Naomi is a world-class defender who is now coming into the prime years of her career. Her composure on the ball, ability to read the game coupled with her pace and athleticism will add top quality to an already very talented squad.” 

Girma’s signing is a significant coup for Chelsea, who have paid a world-record fee for a player for the third time, following previous records set by Denmark forward Pernille Harder and Colombia forward Mayra Ramirez. 

 

SOURCE: cbsnews.com

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