The NWSL has long been a destination for international stars, and as the league reaches new heights, so does its ability to attract world-class talent from across the globe. Last year, Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current, Malawi) burst onto the NWSL scene, winning MVP and setting a new league record with 20 goals. Meanwhile, Barbra Banda (Zambia) joined the Pride midseason and earned Championship MVP honors, leading Orlando to its first NWSL championship. This year, a fresh wave of international stars is set to make their mark, bringing elite skill and international experience to their new clubs. From young prospects ready to break out to proven winners on the world’s biggest stages, these players will be ones to watch.
Rebeca Bernal (Defender, Washington Spirit – Mexico)
Washington Spirit went all the way in 2024 but fell just short in the Championship. In the offseason, they made a major defensive addition with the signing of Mexican international Rebeca Bernal, bringing in the veteran leader from C.F. Monterrey on a three-year deal. A dominant presence in Liga MX Femenil, Bernal captained Rayadas to four league titles and amassed over 250 appearances and scored 65 goals from the backline. She brings a rare combination of defensive solidity and attacking threat. Internationally, Bernal has been a pillar for Mexico as their captain, earning 65 caps and playing a key role in historic moments like the nation’s first Pan American Games gold medal in 2023. Named to the Concacaf W Gold Cup Best XI in 2024, she joins an ambitious team looking to build on their record-breaking 2024 campaign.
Gabi Portilho (Defender, NJ/NY Gotham FC – Brazil)
Gotham FC has added a world-class talent in Gabi Portilho, signing the Brazilian international on a free transfer from Corinthians. A 2024 Ballon d’Or nominee, Portilho is coming off a stellar year, helping Brazil secure Olympic silver with clutch performances—including a game-winning goal against France and a goal and an assist in the semifinal against Spain. While she’s spent most of her career in Brazil, where she won five straight league titles and three Copa Libertadores crowns, her move to Gotham marks an exciting new chapter for both her and her fans. Portilho’s pace, technical ability, and attacking instincts from the backline make her a perfect fit for Gotham’s dynamic playstyle. With the 2023 NWSL Champions retooling their lineup, Portilho will surely be a difference-maker as the club chases a return to the winners circle.
Lorena (Goalkeeper, Kansas City Current – Brazil)
Kansas City’s latest addition between the posts is none other than Brazilian starting keeper, Lorena. The highly rated shot-stopper has been a key figure for Brazil’s national team, helping them win silver in the 2024 Paris Olympics where she played every minute for her country after missing the 2023 World Cup due to injury. Known for her sharp reflexes, commanding presence, and ability to distribute from the back, Lorena will be vital as Kansas City pushes for a title after falling in the semifinals last season to Orlando Pride.. Already loaded with many of the best international players in the world, like Chawinga and fellow Brazilians Debinha and Bia Zaneratto, Kansas City knows how to meld domestic and international talent into a competitive squad.
Alanna Kennedy (Defender, Angel City FC – Australia)
Angel City FC is bringing back a familiar face to the NWSL, signing Australian international Alanna Kennedy to a one-year deal with an option for 2026. The veteran defender joins from Manchester City, where she spent the past four seasons, adding leadership and experience to ACFC’s backline. A versatile center-back with strong distribution and set-piece ability, Kennedy has been a key figure for the Matildas since making her debut in 2012, earning 131 caps and competing in multiple World Cups and Olympic Games.
Kennedy is no stranger to the NWSL, having previously won a championship with the Western New York Flash in 2016 before making 60 appearances with the Orlando Pride. Now, she returns to the league as a seasoned leader, ready to bring her winning mentality to Los Angeles, a team with a good balance of youth and experienced talent. Angel City didn’t make the playoffs last season after qualifying in 2023, and is hoping Kennedy’s experience and defensive presence could be the missing piece to solidify their squad.
Chiamaka Okwuchukwu (Forward, San Diego Wave FC – Nigeria)
San Diego Wave FC signed a host of young talent in the offseason to start building a squad for the future, and one exciting signing that stands out is 19-year-old Nigerian forward Chiamaka Okwuchukwu. Okwuchukwu arrives fresh off an impressive showing at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, where she scored twice and provided an assist. Her arrival continues the NWSL’s growing influx of elite African talent, following huge performances from players like Banda, Chawinga, and Asisat Oshoala—who became fan favorites, captured hearts, and terrified backlines all season in 2024. With San Diego looking to strengthen its frontline and redefine their identity in the new season, Okwuchukwu brings energy and versatility, making her a strong candidate to become one of the league’s breakout stars in 2025.
Oihane Hernández (Defender, Orlando Pride – Spain)
As if they didn’t already have one of the best backlines in the league, Orlando Pride reinforced its defense by signing Spanish international Oihane Hernández on a two-year deal from Real Madrid. A technically gifted fullback with elite defensive awareness and pinpoint distribution, Hernández played a crucial role in Spain’s 2023 World Cup triumph and 2024 Olympic semifinal run. She made 31 appearances for Real Madrid and previously starred for Athletic Club. With her composure under pressure and ability to contribute in both defensive and attacking phases, Hernández will be an interesting addition to the Pride as they aim to defend their NWSL Championship and Shield titles and continue their dominance into 2025.
Ana María Guzmán (Defender, Utah Royals – Colombia)
A dynamic fullback who thrives on the overlap, Guzmán arrives in the NWSL on a loan from FC Bayern Munich as one of Colombia’s brightest young stars. At just 19, she has already showcased her talents on the international stage, including stepping up for her country in the knockout rounds at the 2023 World Cup. Known for her tenacity in defense and precise delivery into the box, Guzmán will add energy and creativity to Utah’s backline. As the Royals continue to build their identity in their second season, Guzmán’s flair and confidence make her a player to watch in 2025.
Honorary Mentions: Kenza Dali & Julie Dufour
Two more international stars to watch this season are France’s Kenza Dali and Julie Dufour. Dali, a seasoned midfielder with exceptional vision and playmaking ability, arrives with a wealth of experience from the WSL and international tournaments. Having already played alongside several of her new San Diego Wave teammates for both club and country, she brings instant chemistry and leadership to the squad. Meanwhile, Dufour, a rising talent for France, boasts the technical skill and creativity to be a game-changer. As she looks to make an impact with Angel City FC and continue her ascent on the international stage, both club and country will be counting on her ability to shine against top competition.
