Gone are those days when the European soccer leagues dominated the entire picture. Make no mistake, they are the pioneers of the game. But NWSL is making waves as well. At the Olympics, around 56 players appeared from the NWSL to compete in the Olympics. And now, Angel City lured Katie Zelem away from Manchester United, as the league continues to attract players from Europe.
The franchise is owned by numerous celebrities like Natalie Portman, Alexis Ohanian, Serena Williams, etc. When many players who arrived in the USA discussed the living conditions in America to be top-notch, Zelem’s ambition was far from that. She is a born winner!
Welcome to LA, Katie!
📝 #AngelCityFC announces that England WNT midfielder Katie Zelem has signed with the club through 2026 via free agency. Zelem, former team captain for Man Utd, joins the club as the first signing of the August transfer window.https://t.co/T4nF5Qx2nH pic.twitter.com/KU2QpNTRA9— Angel City FC (@weareangelcity) August 12, 2024
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Winning the Serie A title in the 2017-2018 season with Juventus and lifting the Women’s Championship with Manchester United – Zelem will bring much-needed experience to their midfield.
Katie Zelem’s Red Devils mentality to assist the Angels!
With many players embracing the USA now for better privacy, it makes sense for players to move here. Players in the USA enjoy a higher standard of living, including improved privacy, and various engaging activities. However, Zelem is here to succeed. According to the Sporting Tribune, she stated, “I’m not moving to America for the lifestyle, the sun, whatever the other positives that come with going to Los Angeles. I’m going to win.”
Living in Los Angeles brings more luxuries to the celebrity-driven streets and the glittering parties in the city. Be it basketball, baseball, or football, Los Angeles boasts illustrious sports teams. Thus, Zelem remains focused on the task ahead. Notably, Angel City signed her via free agency until 2026. Significantly, she earned 161 caps with the Red Devils, scoring 32 goals. Featuring with England in the 2023 World Cup, the midfield workhorse fits perfectly into the Angel City roster.
What’s your perspective on:
Is Katie Zelem the missing piece Angel City FC needs to dominate the NWSL?
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As for the Angels, they believe she can take them forward. The team reached the playoffs for the first time in 2023 and the semifinal of the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup. But reaching the final stage of the competition always seems to be a problem. Therefore, Katie Zelem could change their fortunes.
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In terms of the player profile, Angel City found it hard to retain possession. Although they put together passes in the center, their composure in the final third, let them down. Therefore, Zelem could unlock the defense with her creativity and come up with goals for the team.
All in all, it’s a great signing for Angel City. Katie Zelem is a leader wherever she has played. With Ali Riley and Sarah Gorden at the leadership helm, Zelem will fit in like a duck to water. She is the real deal!
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Is Katie Zelem the missing piece Angel City FC needs to dominate the NWSL?