كيف حققت تشيلسي رقماً قياسياً في انتقالات النساء بالتعاقد مع جيرما؟
Naomi Girma’s transfer to Chelsea has made headlines as the first $1 million transfer in women’s soccer history, marking a significant milestone for the sport. The 24-year-old defender, who is widely regarded as one of the best in her position globally, moved from San Diego Wave for a fee of $1.1 million, surpassing the previous record held by Racheal Kundananji.
Girma’s desire to leave San Diego was evident for some time, and despite instability within the Wave organization—including coaching changes and player departures—General Manager Camille Ashton emphasized that Girma’s wish to move was independent of these issues. Chelsea emerged as a preferred destination due to their strong competitive environment and ambition.
The deal came after Chelsea sought to strengthen their defense following injuries within their squad. With Girma joining an already talented team that has dominated English women’s football recently, her presence is expected to enhance Chelsea’s defensive capabilities significantly.
Despite interest from other clubs like Arsenal and Lyon, Girma ultimately chose Chelsea because of its winning culture and potential for personal growth. This transfer not only highlights Girma’s individual talent but also reflects the growing financial investment in women’s soccer as it continues to gain prominence on a global scale.Naomi Girma’s transfer to Chelsea has been described as the biggest move in women’s football history, with a world record transfer fee exceeding $1 million. This significant event comes amidst a backdrop of instability for her former team, San Diego Wave FC, which has seen key players like Jaedyn Shaw also express desires to leave.
Girma had been a crucial player for the Wave since their inaugural season in 2022 but had long harbored ambitions of moving abroad. Camille Ashton, the new general manager of the Wave, acknowledged that Girma’s desire to leave predated her arrival and was not directly linked to recent upheavals within the club’s management and coaching staff.
Despite interest from other clubs like Lyon, Girma made it clear that Chelsea was her preferred destination. Ashton’s negotiations with Chelsea emphasized ensuring that San Diego received adequate compensation for losing such an important player. Ultimately, they reached an agreement that satisfied both parties.
With Girma joining Chelsea—a club already dominant in English women’s football—her presence is expected to enhance their defensive capabilities significantly. The Blues have won five consecutive Women’s Super League titles and are competing on multiple fronts this season. Her addition is seen as pivotal as they aim for continued success domestically and in Europe.
As San Diego looks ahead after losing two foundational players in Shaw and Girma, Ashton mentioned a “rebuild” phase for the organization both on and off the field. The focus will now be on reshaping the team while maintaining competitive standards moving forward.Naomi Girma’s transfer to Chelsea marks a significant moment in women’s soccer, as it is reported to be the biggest deal in the sport’s history, with a transfer fee exceeding $1 million. Girma expressed her excitement about joining Chelsea, highlighting the club’s culture, winning mentality, and top-notch environment for growth.
Chelsea had long been interested in Girma, especially after Kadeisha Buchanan suffered an ACL injury. The club aimed to strengthen its defense and saw Girma as a potential cornerstone for the future. Despite competition from Arsenal and Lyon—both of whom made substantial offers—Girma ultimately chose Chelsea due to her preference for their ambitious environment and vision.
The San Diego Wave faced challenges with player retention amid organizational instability. Although they were reluctant to let go of such a key player like Girma, they recognized that accommodating her desire for a new chapter was essential. Ultimately, both clubs reached an agreement that benefited them financially while allowing Girma to pursue her aspirations at Chelsea.
With this signing, Chelsea continues its dominance in women’s football by adding depth and quality to their already formidable squad as they aim for further success domestically and in Europe.
