The coming years are set to be crucial for the U.S. Women’s National Team. After regaining their dominance following the 2023 World Cup upset by clinching gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, their focus now shifts to upcoming major tournaments—most notably the 2027 World Cup and the 2028 LA Olympics. With so much at stake, it begs the question: aside from Emma Hayes as head coach, who fits the bill to lead the players on the pitch? While there’s no definitive answer, Megan Rapinoe and Becky Sauerbrunn appear to have placed their trust firmly in Naomi Girma.
Since being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft, the center-back has established herself as one of the most sought-after talents in the sport. That became abundantly clear when Chelsea paid a record-breaking transfer fee of over $1 million, making her the most expensive player in the women’s game. While some may question the hefty price tag, it’s worth noting that Girma has managed to leave even the biggest icons of the beautiful game in awe.
“I know nothing is as easy as Naomi makes it look, but my God she glides around the pitch as if she’s out for a Sunday stroll,” Megan Rapinoe once told British Vogue editor Kerry McDermott as Girma was made aware of the remark during a recent exclusive interview. It was held to celebrate the former San Diego Wave star being named the face of the magazine’s June 2025 issue.
In fact, not just the great Pinoe; even retired center-back and fellow American Becky Sauerbrunn also sang praises to Kerry McDermott about Naomi. “She’s an absolute force,” said the former Portland Thorns, something which might be music to the ears of Girma as she considers Sauerbrunn as one of her inspirations.
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Well, that explains why the Blues star is now basking in the glory of her superstar status. “Someone who has the compassion and intelligence to be a wonderful leader of people, the vision and timing to do whatever she wants on a field and make it look easy, and the self-awareness and drive to bring everyone along with her,” added Becky.
(This is a developing story…)
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