Absence of a 20-Year-Old Angel City Forward Sparks Transfer Rumors While Team Pushes Forward
Late Sunday evening, the public was notified that Angel City FC’s adored forward, Alyssa Thompson, would be missing Monday’s match against Bay FC. Though there are various reasons as to why soccer players can or would miss a game, Thompson’s recent absence was no coincidence. With the WSL’s final transfer date closing in on September 4th, many were speculating that the news of Thompson’s absence had to do with recent rumors about her possibly being eyed by Chelsea. Last week, it was reported that Chelsea was greatly interested in the young forward, and now many are believing that Thompson had a meeting with Chelsea yesterday afternoon in hopes of settling an official transfer deal.
The young 20-year-old has proven repeatedly that she is a powerful asset on any team. Not only has she been a standout player for Angel City FC since January 2023, but she also represents the U.S. Women’s National Team. During the 2025 NWSL season, within the 16 games that Thompson has played, she has a total of six goals and two assists, thanks to her ability to move effortlessly and confidently throughout her opponents' side. Within this year’s season, Thompson has only received one other excused absence before, so her absence today left many Angel fans worried about whether these rumors were true. Yesterday at Angel City’s match with Bay FC, fans could be seen holding signs asking Alyssa, “Don’t Leave”; many other signs held similar messages. Though fans were aware that the beloved soccer player would not be making an appearance yesterday, it can be assumed that they wished for their messages to reach her.
Thompson’s transfer leaves many asking questions, but specifically, many are left to wonder how her transfer to Chelsea will affect Angel City. The transfer window for the NWSL closed on August 25th, and because of this, Angel City was left in a difficult position as they would not be able to find a proper replacement for Thompson’s position; however, last night’s match against Bay FC should leave many at ease. Within the first 12 minutes of the game, Riley Tiernan ran the ball up the left side of the field, entered her way into the penalty box, through the Bay’s defense, and landed a beautiful goal in the back of the net. Though it was early in the match, Tiernan’s goal shifted the tone of play for the rest of the game. Both teams continuously played with high levels of aggression and attempted to make various shots on goal. Outstanding plays and efforts were shown from both teams last night, but as the final whistle blew, Angel City came out victoriously 2-1 at the end of the match.
There has not been an official statement nor post made regarding Alyssa Thompson’s transfer by Angel City FC or Thompson herself, but ESPN has shared in an article that there is a source claiming that if Chelsea is serious about Thompson, then they would need to finalize this transfer quickly, before the 4th. If this young forward is setting her sights elsewhere, then many fans should be happy and excited for her bright future. Whether or not the transfer becomes official, one thing is certain – Thompson’s talent has captured global attention, and her next move will be watched closely by all, fans and clubs alike. While her absence from Angel City FC would be greatly missed, Angel City has proven that they have the strength, players, and spirit to carry on.
