Sun Jan 26 18:10:46 UTC 2025: ## Chelsea Sign USWNT Star Naomi Girma in Major Coup

**London, England** – Chelsea Women have secured the signature of highly-rated US Women’s National Team defender Naomi Girma in a major boost for the club. The 24-year-old has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract, joining from NWSL champions San Diego Wave.

Girma, who was named US Soccer’s Female Player of the Year in 2023 and won a gold medal at the 2024 Olympics, expressed her excitement at joining the Blues. “I’m so happy and really excited to be here,” she said. “The culture, the winning mentality, staff and players – it’s a top environment to learn and grow in.”

Chelsea’s Head of Women’s Football, Paul Green, lauded Girma’s talent and experience. “Naomi is a world-class defender in the prime of her career,” Green stated. “Her composure, game reading, pace, and athleticism will add top quality to our squad.”

Girma boasts an impressive resume. A former NWSL Rookie of the Year and two-time NWSL Defender of the Year, she was also a key part of San Diego Wave’s NWSL Shield-winning team. She was also nominated for The Best FIFA Women’s Player award in 2024 and named in The Best FIFA Women’s XI. Her collegiate career at Stanford University included captaining the team to the Women’s College Cup in 2019, where she played alongside current Chelsea forward Catarina Macario.

Girma’s arrival is seen as a significant statement of intent from Chelsea as they look to continue their success on the domestic and European stages. The club welcomes its new No.16 and eagerly anticipates her contributions in a Chelsea shirt.

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