New Chapters Begin for Both a Club and a 20-Year-Old Player
The rumor of Alyssa Thompson’s transfer to the WSL club Chelsea has officially been confirmed. Thompson's transfer fee is reportedly an estimated total of $1.3 million to $1.5 million; there is even a possibility that her official fee could reach two million dollars with various add-ons included. Her contract with Chelsea is set until the end of 2030. Earlier this year, Thompson signed an extension contract with Angel City FC, extending her stay with the club until the end of 2028. Because of this, the rumors that were circulating about Thompson’s possible transfer at the beginning of this week came as a shock to the club and many of L.A.’s fans. However, Chelsea and Angel City FC have both agreed on this transfer, and therefore her move is being viewed as an official and professional trade; but now that it's official, what does this mean for Angel City FC?
This now puts them in a difficult position. With a few games away until the eight teams of the NWSL playoffs are chosen, Angel City is currently ranked ninth in the league, and now more than ever, every goal, every play, and every chance matters. Angel City currently cannot transfer a new player to replace Thompson’s sudden departure due to the NWSL’s trading window concluding on August 25th. As a result, many are viewing Thompson’s transfer as a possible setback for the club, especially after ESPN captured a statement from Angel City’s head coach, Alexander Straus, claiming that “after Monday’s 2-1 victory over Bay FC, the previous days had been ‘difficult.” Though the timing may not have been ideal, many should not forget to look at this in a positive light: a young 20-year-old forward is advancing toward a great opportunity and a new chapter in her life.
During the AC Milan and Chelsea’s preseason game, Chelsea’s forward Mayra Ramírez received an injury to her hamstring. Her absence and healing period are what started Chelsea’s search for a new forward. Chelsea is very excited to welcome Thompson to the team and is eager to see how she will thrive during her time with them. They have now acquired a new and growing talent that will hopefully help continue to expand their team further into the powerhouse that it is. Thompson posted her transfer on her social media this past Thursday, sharing a caring video about how her love for soccer has grown into what it is today and her overwhelming appreciation for this opportunity. “Being at Chelsea, they’re like one of the best teams in the world…Being able to have this opportunity is so special to me,” said Thompson in the reel. Thompson made a public statement about her love for Los Angeles, Angel City FC, and the time she has spent with her club, especially with her younger sister, Gisele Thompson, defender for Angel City FC. Many fans have enjoyed watching these two sisters grow their skills on the field. Because of that, watching them play without each other will truly be a bittersweet moment, knowing that both of these girls are advancing in their own way.
Although Angel City FC did not start the 2025 season in the way they would have wanted to, they still have so many opportunities for a chance at the playoffs. Though the NWSL trading window is now closed and puts the club in a difficult position, they still have the potential on their current roster to fill Thompson’s spot. Just this past Thursday, the same day that Alyssa announced her transfer, Gisele Thompson signed a contract that extended her stay with Angel City FC until 2029. Angel City also won 2-1 against Bay FC during Thompson's absence, proving to many that, although it may not feel the same, they can and will continue to advance without her. Angel City FC is not done yet and is determined. They have various players ready to prove themselves and grow further with the club, and Thompson’s absence now presents them with this opportunity to do so. While Alyssa Thompson’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter for both Angel City and the young forward, it also signals the start of a new era.
