“I’ve always thought about playing overseas at some point in my career.” And just like that, Trinity Rodman left Washington Spirit and its passionate fanbase in a state of alarm. This statement, made by the star forward just a few days ago, has since fueled speculation about her potential exit from the NWSL. While most of her supporters hope she remains in the States, her nation’s icons Sam Mewis and Becky Sauerbrunn have sent their ‘support‘ to Rodman for her possible move overseas.

Already, a host of stars including Naomi Girma, Jenna Nighswonger, Kerolin, and Crystal Dunn have left America for Europe. Now if the daughter of Dennis Rodman becomes the latest to do so then it would certainly spell trouble for the NWSL. And if you think you’re surprised to hear these exit rumors alone, there’s a reason you shouldn’t.

“I don’t think it should come as a shock to many,” began Sauerbrunn while speaking on The Women’s Game podcast. “Every player wants to explore playing overseas and we will have to deal with it when Trinity decides it’s the right time for her.” Mewis continued with Becky’s point, stating, “I agree… I do think that this could be a great catalyst for the NWSL to implement that designated player role. Just pay Trinity Rodman $5 million and she‘ll stay.”

Then again, Sauerbrunn interjected, stating it’s hardly about money for Trin. One has to admit that since the inception of the beautiful game, Europe has managed to build an unmatched legacy in this sport. It’s almost as if it’s the hotspot of all the soccer-related activities. Therefore, the former Portland Thorns defender insisted that Rodman just wants to play overseas for just ‘experience.’

Further agreeing with her fellow co-host, Mewis added, “I do think that we should actually support players who want to go and play overseas,” added the former midfielder, who herself enjoyed a stint at Manchester City. She cited the feeling of contesting in prestigious tournaments like the Champions League which is quite an amazing opportunity for players.

Come to think of it, we do recall Rodman admitting she wants to make a change because of her desire to play at the highest level. “I think I would kick myself if I retired and hadn’t done that. So it’s just a matter of when I think. But yeah, just focus on this year, and we’ll see what happens when the time is right,” she said in a similar declaration.

Yet, we reckon many of you still won’t find it right to see Rodman leaving NWSL. In that case, consider hearing how it will benefit the league itself in the long run.

Trinity Rodman will bring a lot to NWSL from Europe

Sure, the 22-year-old is making a significant impact in her home league. But just imagine what could be in store for her in Europe. Admit it or not, there’s no better place to truly develop in soccer than the competitive environment of foreign leagues. And it’s not like Rodman would end up staying there permanently; expect her to return with a lot of experience and knowledge.

“I do think that ultimately, most of these players will come back, and with them, that will bring a global presence, the experience that they’ve gained from playing in a different culture. It is a really exciting thing for players and doing this is on most players’ bucket list,” emphasized Mewis.

Well, to cite an example, consider Sofia Huerta, who is currently on loan at Lyon from Seattle Reign since 2024. In an interview earlier, the forward insisted that she won’t be extending her stay with the French giants any longer. Additionally, she also vowed to bring a lot of learning with her and pass it on to her fellow teammates at Reign. “I’ll take a lot from being here. I’m definitely happy that I came here. But I am itching to come back to Seattle,” said Huerta.

So would be okay if the same happens in the case of Trinity Rodman? Sound off in the comments.