Overview

• Naomi Girma, the first million-dollar player in women's soccer, will miss Chelsea's League Cup final against Manchester City due to a calf injury sustained during her debut on March 2.
• Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor confirmed Girma’s absence, along with other injured players including Keira Walsh, Guro Reiten, and Maelys Mpomé, with recovery timelines being evaluated weekly.
• Girma's $1.1 million transfer from San Diego Wave to Chelsea set a new record for the highest fee in women's soccer history, underscoring her impact on the sport.
• USWNT teammate Trinity Rodman expressed pride in Girma's move and hinted at her own aspirations to play overseas, though she remains focused on the upcoming NWSL season with the Washington Spirit.
• The NWSL faces challenges retaining top talent as players like Girma, Crystal Dunn, and Jenna Nighswonger opt for European clubs, citing better financial opportunities and growth prospects.