From Popp to Diani: 10 women’s transfers you may have missed during the men’s World Cup
Several notable women’s football transfers took place during June and July while attention was dominated by the men’s World Cup. The moves underline continued investment in established stars and younger talent across the Women’s Super League, NWSL and major European clubs.
– Alexandra Popp joined Borussia Dortmund’s third-tier women’s side on a three-year deal after 14 years at Wolfsburg, aiming to help develop the club she supports. – Tottenham signed Kirsty Hanson after she scored 12 goals in 22 WSL matches for Aston Villa last season. – Angel City acquired 22-year-old US international Ally Sentnor from Kansas City Current for $850,000 (£635,000). – Real Madrid signed 19-year-old Swedish forward Felicia Schröder from Häcken for a reported fee of more than 15m Swedish kronor (£1.15m). – Chelsea recruited Japan international Manaka Matsukubo, 21, from North Carolina Courage for an undisclosed fee.
- Women’s football saw significant transfers amid the men’s World Cup.
- Popp moved to Borussia Dortmund after 14 years at Wolfsburg.
- Chelsea, Real Madrid, Tottenham and Angel City strengthened their squads.
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During the summer months when the men's World Cup commanded international attention, women's professional football continued its own transfer activity. A series of player movements took place across top leagues including the Women's Super League in England, the NWSL in the United States, and major European clubs.
These transfers involved established international players and developing talent joining new teams and clubs. The moves occurred across multiple continents and competitions, with players moving between Scandinavia, Spain, North America and other regions.
Professional women's football operates as a distinct global marketplace for player recruitment and development. These transfers took place during the men's World Cup and received less media attention than comparable activity in the men's game.