Asisat Oshoala Leaves Barcelona to Join Bay FC
She has made a significant move from Barcelona to Bay FC, a
new team in the NWSL, as confirmed by both clubs on Thursday.
At 29, Oshoala has agreed to a contract with the club based
in the San Francisco Bay Area, lasting until 2026, with an option to extend it
into the 2027 season. She will fill one of the international slots on the team
roster.
Lucy Rushton, the general manager of Bay FC, expressed
enthusiasm about Oshoala's addition, highlighting her impressive track record,
skill set, and influence on the field. Rushton praised Oshoala's combination of
speed, technical skills, and goal-scoring prowess, underscoring the Nigerian
striker's impact at the highest levels of global soccer and her anticipated
contribution to Bay FC.
Oshoala's career transitioned to Barcelona from Dalian
Quanjian in China in 2019, following stints with Liverpool and Arsenal in the
English Women's Super League. A celebrated figure in soccer, Oshoala has been
named African Player of the Year six times and has secured multiple titles with
Barcelona, including four Liga F championships, two UEFA Women's Champions
League titles, and three Copas de la Reina.
In a heartfelt Instagram message, Oshoala shared her
feelings about leaving Barcelona, expressing gratitude and fondness for the
team, the city, and the club's supporters. She reflected on her achievements
and the deep connections formed during her tenure, emphasizing the honor of
representing Barcelona and contributing to its success.
Oshoala leaves Barcelona with a legacy as the fourth
all-time top scorer, having netted 107 goals in 149 appearances, and receiving
two Ballon d'Or Féminin nominations.
Bay FC is set to embark on its first NWSL season in 2024,
with plans to share facilities with the San Jose Earthquakes of Major League
Soccer.
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