American club Bay FC have signed Super Falcons star, Asisat Oshoala, from Barcelona Women for a rumored € 150,000.
The 29-year-old, who was named African Women’s Footballer of the Year for a sixth time in December, has signed a deal until 2026 with the option of a third year with the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team.
Fondly called ‘Agba baller’ by fans here in Nigeria, Oshoala had a glittering career in Spain with four league titles, two Champions League cups and eight domestic cups during five years FC Barcelona, where she had five months to run on her contract with the Catalan club.
“Asisat is a proven goalscorer at the most elite levels of world football,” Bay FC general manager Lucy Rushton said.
Oshoala, who previously had spells with Liverpool and Arsenal, scored 117 goals in 162 appearances for Barca, who she joined from the Chinese side Dalian Quanjian in 2019.
She was the first African woman to win a Champions League title in 2021 – having already become the first African woman to score in a final in 2019.
Oshoala, who has been nominated for the Ballon d’Or twice, joins Bay FC as the San Jose-based outfit prepare for their first NWSL campaign as the American top flight expands to 14 clubs.
“To have the opportunity to add a player of Asisat’s quality, experience and winning pedigree to our roster is an exciting and important day for the club and the NWSL,” Rushton further said.
“She brings a top-class mentality to the field combined with pace and technical ability that allows her to lead the line, while also giving those players around her the license to be creative and thrive in space.”
Oshoala’s tally of 117 goals for Barcelona Women made her the club’s fourth-highest goalscorer in the professional era.
…….Farewell message
Asisat thanked Barcelona fans in her farewell message , saying she achieved more than she dream of.
“As I bid farewell to this incredible team and the city that has been my home for the past 5 years, I am filled with mixed emotions. It has been an absolute honor and privilege to wear the @fcbfemeni jersey and represent this prestigious club.
“Since joining the team in 2019, I have had the opportunity to be a part of some of the most memorable moments in the club’s history. Together, we have lifted several trophies and these achievements are a testament to hard work, dedication and I feel privileged to have been a part of this team”, the message read.
“But beyond the trophies and accolades, what I will cherish most are the relationships I have built with some of my teammates, coaches, staff and the amazing fans. You have become my family and I will forever be grateful for the love and support you have shown me.
“As I embark on a new journey, I want you to know that @fcbfemeni will always hold a special place in my heart. I will carry with me the memories, lessons and friendships that I have gained during my time here.
“Thank you for everything @fcbfemeni , You have given me more than I could have ever imagined and I will always be a proud representative of this incredible club”, Asisat added.
—–See pictures as Asisat lands in the US:
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