Naomi Girma, a top defender for the United States Women’s National Team, made her debut for Chelsea Sunday in England’s Women’s Super League, but it was quickly overshadowed when she limped off due to an injury.
Girma, the first million-dollar player in women’s soccer, started for Chelsea in her debut and played until the 59th minute against Brighton, when she had to leave the match due to an unspecified injury. Her replacement, Nathalie Björn, stepped in, and the game ended in a 2-2 draw at Brighton Broadfield Stadium.
After the match, Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor expressed optimism about the 24-year-old star’s injury and stated that they would assess her and move forward accordingly. Reports indicated that Girma had tightness in her calf.
Despite the draw, Chelsea is leading the WSL standings with 41 points, and Manchester United is second with 36 points.
Girma’s record-breaking deal
Chelsea paid $1.12 million (£900,000) in January’s record-breaking transfer to acquire Girma from the National Women’s Soccer League’s San Diego Wave, with whom she was under contract until 2026. Chelsea has won the past five WSL championships.
‘I was drawn to Chelsea for many reasons: the culture, the winning mentality, the staff, and the players. It’s an excellent environment for learning and personal growth,’ Girma said in a club statement at the time.
San Diego recognized Girma’s potential and selected her as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NWSL draft. In her first season, she not only lived up to the expectations but exceeded them, winning both the league’s top defender award in 2022 and 2023 and the rookie of the year award.
Girma also played every game for the USWNT at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and helped the team win gold.