When the news broke about Naomi Girma leaving San Diego Wave for Chelsea, it caught many by surprise. Sure, the record-breaking, historic transfer fee of over a million dollars was one reason. But much of the reaction centered around how the USWNT defender would navigate this major shift—even though it wasn’t the first time fans had seen such a move. Heck, beyond the usual questions of how she would adapt on the pitch, it was the off-field cultural changes that raised the most concern—something even Girma has admitted left her thinking, “What does that mean?”

Well, she isn’t alone. When you decide to pack your bags and step out of your comfort zone to move to the other side of the world, you inevitably face the challenges that come with it. For Girma, those challenges have mostly stemmed from the clear cultural contrast between America and the UK. “Culturally, I mean there are so many changes when you move countries,” began Girma in a recent exclusive interview with Forbes.

“Obviously, the same language, but I think there are some words in there where I’m like, ‘What does that mean? I’ve never heard that.'” Not surprising at all, mate! The way of communication, living, and many other factors often bring in obvious changes. Fortunately, this is something that Naomi openly embraces and more importantly, is enjoying.

“We have a lot of different terminology but it’s been great,” admitted the 24-year-old. “The staff and players at Chelsea have made the transition feel really smooth for me. Stepping into a culture where you can feel that people care about each other, genuinely want the best for each other, and want to win is something that always feels good.”

Even though Girma has openly admitted to facing only a few challenges, the former NWSL star is adjusting as best as she can. The best part? The people around her have been offering all the support they can — including, of course, her entire Chelsea family.

Moreover, we can assume that her USWNT compatriots, including Mia Fishel and Catarina Macario, who had already settled into life at Kingsmeadow quite well before Girma’s arrival, have likely played a key role in helping the San Jose, California native adjust seamlessly to her new city and a new chapter.

While it’s good to hear that Girma is enjoying this cultural change, for now, we are rather concerned more about her on-pitch domestic affairs. To recall, the star signing of the entire women’s soccer remains AWOL. Speaking of which, is there any update regarding that?

A major injury update on Naomi Girma

Since securing her high-profile transfer, Girma has seen limited time on the field. Her WSL debut was cut short when the former San Diego Wave standout was forced off just 59 minutes into the match. Since then, she has remained sidelined, missing a considerable number of games for both club and country — a situation that has left fans repeatedly wondering when she will finally return to action.

Fortunately, her coach Sonia Bompastor offered an encouraging update. Ahead of Chelsea’s crucial FA Women’s Cup semifinal against Liverpool, the French manager addressed Girma’s absence. She gave a reassurance to the fans by confirming that the defender is “close to being back in the squad.”

Although Bompastor ruled Girma out for the recently concluded weekend fixture, explaining the timing wasn’t quite right for her return, the former Lyon boss remains optimistic and believes it’s only a matter of time before the American center-back is back on the pitch. “She is really close, though, and could be included in the squad for the Barcelona game,” Bompastor said, hoping to see her star signing in action pretty soon.

There you go, not long is remaining before Naomi Girma makes her much-anticipated return on the pitch. In the meantime, she may allow herself to evolve more culturally.