Official: Oshoala leaves Barcelona for Bay FC

• In a groundbreaking announcement today, Thursday, Bay FC, one of the National Women's Soccer League's expansion teams, has secured the services of Nigerian international, Asisat Oshoala from FC Barcelona Femení in Spain.

This transfer marks a significant development for the United States club as they finalise the deal in exchange for an undisclosed transfer fee.

As part of the agreement, Oshoala has inked a contract with Bay FC, binding her to the team until the end of the 2026 season, with an additional option for the 2027 season. The move is pending the completion of official paperwork.

This transfer brings Oshoala, one of the greatest African players in history, to the forefront of the newest NWSL expansion franchise.

The Nigerian forward, a veteran of three FIFA Women's World Cups (2015, 2019, 2023), played a pivotal role in Nigeria's journey to the Round of 16 in the 2019 and 2023 tournaments.

Oshoala's global experience extends beyond national duties, having played for clubs in Nigeria, China, and Europe.

Expressing her thoughts on the significant shift to the United States, Oshoala said, "I know it's a big change. I understand the challenge that I have ahead of me, and I know that everything is possible as well. It's just about the mindset. You know, it's what we can build together as a team."

Bay FC General Manager, Lucy Rushton expressed excitement about the acquisition, stating, "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 highlighted Oshoala's top-class mentality, pace, and technical ability, emphasising her potential to lead the team and foster creativity among her teammates.

Oshoala's journey to Bay FC traces back to her early career with Rivers Angels FC in Nigeria, where she won the 2014 Nigerian Women's Championship.

Her path then led her to the Women's Super League in England, featuring stints with Liverpool and Arsenal, including a 2016 FA Cup triumph with the latter. 

A move to China with Dalian in 2017 saw Oshoala secure two league titles before her impactful stint with FC Barcelona Femeni in 2019.

During her time at Barcelona, Oshoala etched her name in the league's history, scoring 107 goals in 149 appearances and setting a league record as the joint-top scorer in 2022 with 19 goals.

Her departure from Barcelona leaves a legacy of four league titles, three Spanish Super Cups, and three Copa de la Reina titles.

Oshoala also boasts two UEFA Women's Champions League titles (2020-21, 2022-23) and the distinction of being the first African woman to score and win in the Champions League final.

Bay FC will kick off the upcoming NWSL season with a clash against Angel City on March 16 in Los Angeles.