#this is just like the orlando pride in nwsl

[adorawoso]

It’s what she deserves

[meazalykov]

tis the season

lea schuller x nwsl!reader

summary: surprises are apart of the christmas holiday

for @katelynnwrites

it’s two weeks before christmas when you make the final arrangements to fly back to munich.  

the lie comes easily when you’re on the phone with lea, her voice soft and slightly tired after a long training day.

“i wish i could come,” you say, shifting on your couch as you stare at the tickets on your coffee table. 

“but the pride has me doing all this promotional stuff… media shoots, a kid’s camp, the whole thing. you know how the off-season is over here in america.”

lea hums on the other end, a pause where you can tell she’s disappointed but trying to understand. “it’s okay,” she replies, though her voice says otherwise. “i know you’re busy.”

“you’re mad,” you tease lightly, trying to keep things playful so she doesn’t linger on it too much.

“i’m not mad,” she sighs, but you can practically see the pout on her face through the phone. 

“i just miss you. christmas is better with you here.”

its time likes this when you regret leaving germany to pursue the more competitive league. yes, you weren't getting much play time at bayern (now being a starter for orlando and winning the league and championship) but at least you had your lea there with you.

“i miss you too, sonnenschein,” you reply softly, a pang of guilt settling in your chest. 

you’re lying to lea, but for a good reason—one she’ll never see coming.

getting obi on board with your plan was surprisingly easy.

“so you’re telling me you’re flying back to propose to lea,” she says when you call her later that evening. you can practically hear the grin on her face.

“yeah,” you laugh nervously. “she has no idea. i’m gonna need your help sneaking around though… like a lot of help. can i stay at yours when i get in? i just need her to not know i’m there until christmas eve.”

“obviously,” obi replies immediately. 

“this is gonna be so fun. she’s gonna kill me when she finds out i knew, but it’ll be worth it.”

“she’ll forgive you,” you grin.

obi laughs. “maybe. just don’t mess up the proposal, y/n.”

“not a chance,” you say confidently, though your heart starts pounding at the thought of the big moment.

when you arrive in munich two days before christmas eve, obi picks you up from the airport. the cold air hits you immediately, a stark contrast to florida’s weather, but it doesn’t bother you. 

the city feels like home, even though you left for the opportunities in the nwsl. your chest tightens a little as you pass familiar streets and shops on the way to obi’s apartment.

“she thinks you’re still in orlando, right?” obi asks as she pulls your suitcase into her building’s elevator.

“yep,” you confirm, stretching your arms after the long flight. 

“we talked last night. she said she’s just decorating and baking for her christmas party. apparently she invited half the bayern team.”

obi grins. “you’ll have quite the audience, then.”

“i’m not nervous about the crowd,” you lie, though your stomach flips just thinking about it.

“i’ll believe that when i see it,” obi teases, unlocking her apartment door. 

“just keep quiet while we’re here. she’ll come looking for me eventually, and i’m a terrible liar.”

“got it,” you reply, plopping onto her couch. “and thanks again for this.”

“anything for my bestfriend and her lover,” obi says dramatically, earning an eye roll from you. but you smile anyway.

it’s christmas eve, two hours into lea’s party, when you arrive at the building you once called home. obi’s beside you, grinning like an accomplice in a heist. you take a deep breath as you stare up at the lit windows of lea’s apartment. 

inside, you can hear music playing and faint bursts of laughter—probably giulia or sydney causing chaos.

“ready?” obi asks, handing you a santa hat to wear.

“ready,” you exhale.

obi opens the door, and the warmth hits you immediately as you step inside. for a moment, you’re frozen in place. the room is full of people—some of your old teammates, like tuva and giulia, as well as other familiar faces from bayern. 

sydney spots you first, her face lighting up in pure shock as she nudges giulia beside her.

“y/n?!” sydney shouts, grabbing everyone’s attention. all at once, heads turn your way, and chaos ensues.

“are you kidding me?” giulia shrieks, pulling you into a hug that nearly knocks you over.

“what are you doing here?!” sydney adds, squeezing your arm as she laughs.

“merry christmas?” you offer, grinning as tuva joins the dogpile of hugs. you’re swarmed by familiar faces, everyone excited and surprised to see you back in munich.

across the room, by the tv, you finally spot lea. she’s standing there frozen, eyes wide, her lips slightly parted in disbelief. you can’t help but laugh at her stunned expression.

“did you know about this?” lea asks obi, her voice loud enough to carry over the chatter.

obi raises her hands defensively. “maybe,” she replies with a smirk.

lea gives her a light punch on the shoulder, shaking her head with a small smile.

when you’re finally done greeting everyone, you turn your focus to her. the room seems to blur as you make your way over, her eyes never leaving yours.

“hi,” you say softly, pulling her into a hug. she holds you tightly, her face buried in your shoulder as she exhales shakily.

“you lied to me,” she murmurs into your ear, though her voice holds no anger—just relief.

“i did,” you admit, kissing her temple. 

“but it was for a good reason.”

she pulls back slightly to look at you, eyes narrowed playfully. 

“you’re lucky i love you.”

“i know,” you grin, pressing a quick kiss to her lips before leading her toward the couch.

the evening feels like stepping back into a life you still hold close to your heart. you sit beside lea, your legs tangled as the two of you share cookies from a festive tray. her hand rests lazily on your knee as sam and georgia argue over which holiday movie to put on. 

the room smells like cinnamon and pine, the soft hum of laughter filling the spaces between conversations.

it’s like you never left.

after a while, when the last of lea’s guests filter out just after midnight, you watch as she shuts the door, her movements slow as if the weight of the evening is finally catching up with her.

you finally got to say goodbye to obi, who gave you a hidden smirk before walking about the door. 

“i didn’t think i’d see you this christmas,” she says softly, turning to face you. her smile is small but filled with warmth.

“i didn’t want to miss it,” you reply, standing up to meet her in the center of the living room. the apartment feels quiet now, the twinkle lights casting a soft glow across the space.

she steps closer, her arms wrapping around your waist. 

“well, i’m glad you’re here.”

you take a deep breath, your heart pounding as you reach for her hands, gently pulling them away so you can hold them in yours. she frowns slightly, confused by the sudden seriousness in your expression.

“i need to talk to you about something,” you say quietly, meeting her gaze.

“go ahead,” lea swallows nervously.

“lea… ever since i met you back in 2020, i knew you’d be someone important to me,” you begin, your voice steady but soft. 

“at first, it was just your smile—you were so confident, so full of life when you came from essen while I came from freiburg. then i got to know you a bit more as the first season together went on, and i realized just how special you are. you’re strong, lea. not just on the pitch, but as a person. you always take care of everyone else, even when you don’t have to. you have the biggest heart, and you love so deeply… being with you has made me better in every way.”

you pause to take a breath, feeling the emotion swell in your chest. lea’s eyes are wide, her hands squeezing yours tightly. you can see the tears already gathering at the edges of her lashes, but she doesn’t say anything—she just lets you speak.

“even after i left for orlando, even with the distance, we’ve stayed strong. you’ve been my home, no matter where i am. and i want to make that official. i want to spend the rest of my life with you, lea.”

you release one of her hands to reach behind you, pulling the small velvet box from your pocket. your heart pounds as you slowly drop to one knee, your gaze never leaving hers.

lea gasps softly, her hands covering her mouth. you smile up at her, your typical confident smirk softening into something far more tender.

“so,” you say, voice light but full of emotion, “will you marry me, sonnenschein?”

“you’re… you’re insane,” she breathes, reaching into her jogger pocket. your eyes widen as she pulls out her own velvet box, and suddenly she’s dropping to one knee as well.

you freeze, blinking at her in disbelief. 

“lea, what…?”

she laughs softly, tears brimming in her eyes as she mirrors your position. 

“you think you’re the only one who plans things, liebe?” her voice is shaky, her smile trembling as she opens the box in her hands, revealing a ring that catches the warm glow of the twinkle lights.

“i’ve been carrying this for weeks,” she admits, her cheeks flushed. 

“i thought about waiting until you came back to munich for the next international break… but now you’re here. and i don’t want to wait anymore.”

there’s a moment where neither of you say anything, both of you kneeling on the living room floor, tears streaming down your faces as you stare at each other. your heart is pounding so hard you think she can hear it.

“so,” she continues, her voice soft, steady despite her shaking hands, 

“if you’ll marry me… then yes, y/n, i’ll marry you.”

“you’re proposing to me while i’m proposing to you?” you choke out, a watery laugh escaping as you wipe at your face.

“looks like it,” she grins through her tears.

you don’t know who moves first, but suddenly you’re both laughing and crying, holding each other as the rings sit forgotten between you. you pull back just enough to look at her, cupping her face as you whisper, “yes, sonnenschein. a thousand times yes.”

“and yes to you, liebe,” she replies, leaning in to press her forehead against yours.

your hands are trembling as you both reach for the rings, and you can’t help but laugh when neither of you can slide them on properly at first. “stop shaking!” you tease, though you’re no better, fumbling with her finger as you finally slide the ring into place.

“you’re shaking too,” she fires back, laughing as she slips the band onto your hand with care. for a moment, you both just stare at each other’s hands, the weight of the moment settling in.

“we’re really doing this,” you whisper.

“we are,” she murmurs, smiling softly.

you don’t know who leans in first, but the kiss that follows is deep, filled with every unspoken word, every long mile you’ve spent apart, and every promise of the future you’re now building together. 

when you finally pull away, your cheeks are wet, her eyes shining as she looks at you like you hung the stars in the sky.

“merry christmas, y/n,” she whispers.

“merry christmas, lea,” you reply, your voice soft, steady, and full of love.

masterlist

[12woso12]

Dorothy lands in North London- Prologue

Arsenal buy America's top defender: You.

TW: mentions of mental health, suicide, please don't read if you don't feel up to it

You were built to survive pressure. You were moulded perfectly by the drunk slurs of your father and the untimely death of your mother. There wasn't a single moment that you couldn't handle, you took everything the world threw at you as though you'd been and done it all before.

World cup penalty? No problem.

Injury setback? Bring it on.

Arsenal transfer? Hell yes.

You took everything in your stride, laughing at your own misfortune, finding humour in the darkness. That's how you'd handled your mum's suicide: with insensitive jokes and a cheeky grin that never quite managed to meet your eyes. Most of your frustrations were taken out on the pitch, rough tackles or risky arguments with the opposition had resulted in you being the most carded playing in the NWSL at just 16 years old.

But your aggressive nature on the pitch never seeped into your personality away from football, you made sure of that. You'd do anything to ensure you never inherited your dad's temper and hurt people the way he'd hurt people. The way he'd hurt your mum...the way he hurt you. It was essential that your frustrations were kept firmly on football.

The year you were first called up to the USWNT was the year you finally made enough money to move out. You were sixteen and desperate to escape the clutches of your dad and his disastrous ways. The call up was a long time coming, the NWSL hadn't seen a player with as much potential as you since a teenage Alex Morgan first appeared on the scene.

The call up gained you more attention than you were used to. Granted, you were pretty well known in the States already having played with Gotham city for a year but the media attention you gained for a national call up? That changed the course of your life forever.

Your first tournament with the national team had been nothing short of incredible. It was the 2019 World Cup and you'd spent the entire group stage sat on the bench until Becky Sauerbrunn had gone down injured in the round of 16 and suddenly, you'd been given the chance of a lifetime.

Courageously, at your big age of sixteen, you played in every game until the trophy was in your hands and you were being hailed as the next Bobby Moore. A comparison you were incredibly embarrassed about but one that your teammates, Alex especially, were more than happy to keep reminding you of.

Five years later and you were coming to the end of your contract with Orlando Pride after playing two seasons for them. You were weighing up options for the future, you'd received enough interest from teams across the world to make the decision challenging enough and it was Marta who'd first noticed your troubled expression at training which was an unusual sight compared to your normal sunny nature.

'What's the matter, kid? Your face stuck like that or something?' Marta approached you after drills, concerned as you struggled to shoot her a smile. If there was someone who had all the answers, it was Marta.

'I don't know what to do' You began dropping onto the pitch as the rest of your teammates scurried inside, eager to get to lunch. Marta sat herself down besides you frowning.

'What?' she questioned

You sign and shrug, deflated. 'I've got a lot of interest for my next contract. Obviously Orlando want me to stay but...Gotham want me back, San Diego have been in touch. Even some stuff from Europe'

Much to your surprise, Marta chuckles. 'Kid if i had your problems i'd never want a problem-free life again. You're a superstar! All this attention is deserved'

A small smile stretched across your face. You supposed that Martha did have a point, you were in an incredibly lucky position.

'The offer from San Diego did sound promising...' your mind began to wonder to the conversation you'd had earlier with your agent. He'd be ecstatic about the deal they were willing to offer, there would be a lot of money involved.

'San Diego?' Marta scoffed 'Anjinho, you should set your sights further. If Europe come looking, you make sure you are found.'

You sighed. Europe was just so far away. 'Arsenal have been interested for a while'

Marta slapped you gently on the shoulder 'Arsenal!' she exclaimed 'You love Arsenal...why would you pass on their offer?'

'They're a top team, i mean Leah Williamson plays there. Alessia Russo, Kim Little. I can't hold a candle to them' It was true, you thought. You were only 21, why would they need a kid when they have all the experience and expertise of England's captain?

'Don't be estupida. They would be lucky to have you. You can't spend your entire career in the states. You're too good for that. Way.Too.Good.'

You feel pride seep into your bones. If the great Marta thought you were good, then that was definitely a compliment worth keeping close to your heart.

'Go to Arsenal.' Marta continued. 'Get as far away from here as possible'

'Yeah?' You asked nervously.

'Make yourself found, kid'

Part 1

[the-physicality]

how to pick an nwsl team:

angel city fc (Los Angeles): if you like Christen Press. Very famous ownership group (politically concerning). The team is struggling but has bright young talent. Beckintweed is in her first season as head coach after bringing the team to the playoffs last year as interim.

notable players: christen press, Alyssa Thompson, Gisele Thompson, Messiah bright, Claire Emslie, Sarah Gorden

noteable injuries: Press- extended acl recovery, Jun Endo preseason acl

bay fc (San Jose/Bay Area): if you are an optimist/want to be an early adopter. a lot of exciting internationals, but struggle to win games. First year expansion team so also trying to define themselves. notable players: Rachel Kundananji, Princess, Asistat Oshoala, Deyna Castellanos, Tess Boade, Caprice Dydasco

notable injuries: Alex Loera - acl, Melissa Lowder gk #1 preseason acl

Chicago red stars: if you want to see a redemption story. coming back from a bad season, USA phenom mal Swanson is back to lead attacking talent. Also has USA gk #1 Alyssa naeher. Lorne Donaldson (who coached Jamaica wnt in the 2023 wwc as well as Sophia smith and mal Swanson at a youth level) is in his first year as head coach

notable players: Alyssa Naeher, Mal Swanson, Sam Staab

Houston dash fc: if you like rooting for an underdog and won't get discouraged. a team that has struggled historically but is still fun to watch. A lot of international talent, did very well in the draft. The team has a new head coach Fran Alonso who just came over from the Scottish women’s league. You can watch the team work to implement their new style in real time. Jane Campbell #3 gk for the uswnt as of late won goalkeeper of the year last year. Lost a lot of players to free agency and is rebuilding with rookies, trades, and transfers. somehow both the straightest team and the gayest team at the same time.

notable injuries/abscences: Kiki Van Zanten ankle/ lower leg sei, 3 players on maternity leave

notable players: Jane Campbell, Diana Ordonez, Sophie Schmidt, Paige Nielsen, Tarciane (incoming), Michelle Alozie

Kansas City current: if you like watching bangers. one of the top teams to beat this season. With Malawi sensation Themwa Chawinga this team is difficult to stop and has a lot of attacking prowess. Has some defensive liabilities. Coached by former uswnt head coach vlatko andonoski. Has signed a good number of u18 players

notable players: debinha, lo’eau labonta, themwa chawinga, Vanessa dibernardo, bia zaneratto

New Jersey/New York Gotham fc: if you like the uswnt. recently picked up 4 uswnt players in free agency. Also just got Ann Katrin Berger gk from Chelsea on a transfer. She is very good. Head coach Juan Carlos Amaros won coach of the year last year and the team won the championship. They have struggled with injuries this year and scoring more than one goal in a game.

notable injuries: Midge Purce acl , Abby Smith sei from 2023

notable players: Lynn Williams, Ann Katrin Berger, Crystal Dunn, Rose Lavelle, Tierna Davidson, Esther Gonzalez, Jenna Nighswonger, Emily Sonnett, Midge Purce, Yazmeen Ryan

North Carolina Courage: if you are ok waiting . traditionally a very strong team, has struggled a bit this season without Kerolin who tore her acl on the last regular season game in 2023.

notable injuries: Kerolin acl (Nov 2023)

notable players: Casey Murphy, Brianna Pinto, Tyler Lussi, Manaka, Narumi, Ashley Sanchez, Kerolin

Orlando pride: if you like the brazil women's national team. aka brazil fc. Has gone from a team that struggled to one of the top teams this year, in part due to the players brought in over the offseason, many of whom play for Brazil. Recently brought in Barbra Banda a Zambian striker, who has been very productive.

notable players: Marta, Barbra Banda, rafaelle, ally watt

Portland thorns: if you like soccer dynasties. traditionally one of the most successful teams in the nwsl with a lot of local support, the h th orbs struggled in the first few games with their worst start to the season ever. Following the firing of their head coach, the team has won 6 in a row in interim hc rob gale. Has a lot of strong attacking talent but is vulnerable on defense. The home field is turf.

notable players: Sophia smith, Olivia Moultrie, Christine Sinclair, Janine Beckie, Becky Sauerbrunn

Racing Louisville: if you want to watch a team turn around. a team that has struggled historically has put together a solid team in the offseason under new head coach bev yanez. Got some very good rookies in the draft and is off to a decent start.

notable players: Savannah Demelo, Reilyn Turner, Emma Sears, Uchenna Kanu, Ary Borges

San Diego wave fc: if you like to watch a team underproduce. very successful for a team established in 2022. Has a very strong system but has struggled with injuries as of late. The home field is shared with San Diego state football and is not always in the best condition.

notable injuries: Jaedyn Shaw, Alex Morgan (lower legs out tbd)

notable players: Alex Morgan, Jaedyn Shaw, Kailen Sheridan, Naomi Girma, Abby Dahlkemper, Maria Sanchez

Seattle reign: if you want to watch a team figure out their identity without US national team players. historically successful team that lost a lot of impact players in the offseason to retirement or free agency. Previously owned by the ol group, had to be sold because its owner Michelle Kang also owns the Washington Spirit. Dropping the OL, the brand got a massive upgrade. Is struggling this season. The home field is turf.

notable injuries: Claudia Dickey #1 gk

notable players: Jess Fishlock, Lauren Barnes, Quinn, Bethany Balcer, Alanna Cook, Ji So-Yun, Jordyn Heuitema, Veronica Latsko

Utah royals fc: if you live in utah. a new expansion team that is struggling quite a bit. First time head coach Amy Rodriguez selected ally sentnor as the first draft pick. Has a racist kit and stadium sponsor. Does not have a full roster.

notable injuries: Imani Dorsey Achilles

notable players: Mandy haught, Ifeoma Onumanu, Ally Sentnor

Washington spirit: if you want to watch rookies make magic. owned by Michelle kang, not afraid to make big moves and spend $$$ for a strong team. Has found success recently. Operating under interim hc Adrian Gonzalez until Barcelona head coach Jonathan Giraldez arrives after the end of their season. Croix Bethune is doing very well her rookie season.

notable players: Trinity Rodman, Croix Bethune, Casey Kruger, Andi Sullivan, Ashley Hatch, Hal Hershfelt

[tooneys-russo]

BOOTS AND BROKEN HEARTS

Previous Parts: Chapter 1, Chapter 2

Summary: Alessia and her UNC coach Willa have a bit too much chemistry. Only downside is that Willa has a girlfriend.

CHAPTER 3

Alessia scrolled on Instagram catching up on everything that she had missed, one image in particular caught her eye, posted by Jennifer, the picture of her coach and the soccer star appearing happy with the coach giving Jennifer a kiss on the cheek. Alessia sighed and looked through her coaches Instagram instead, there were a few pictures of her and Jennifer but there were a lot of her in her Bruin days. Alessia spent some time focusing on the pictures where Willa was in her playing shorts and a sports bra after a hard training session, she continued scrolling until she saw a picture of her at a Newcastle United game a few years prior. Willa looked so carefree, she had a beer in her left hand, a Newcastle shirt, beanie, scarf and puffer jacket on. Alessia stared at the picture and as she went to continue scrolling she accidentally double tapped. Her eyes widened with her action. “Shit.” Alessia said to herself, she didn’t know if she should unlike the picture or just live with the fact that Willa now knew she was stalking her Instagram. Alessia locked her phone trying to stop herself from liking another picture. Willa felt her watch buzz with a notification, she saw that Alessia had liked a photo of hers, she opened her phone and noticed that it was an old picture of her at a Newcastle game she smirked knowing that Alessia was having a bit of a deep dive into Willa’s profile. Willa sent a text to the young striker, ‘Hey you okay? Did you want a Newcastle shirt?’ Alessia felt her phone buzz and checked the message, she smiled at her phone. ‘God no, it was a pity like. I would never in my life wear that god awful black and white shirt.’ Willa smiled wide at the cheeky reply, she checked if Jennifer was paying any attention to what she was doing, Jennifer was looking at her own phone smiling at it. ‘I bet you would look great in a Newcastle shirt, I will take you to a game one day. Maybe we will both end up back in England.’ Willa dreamed of going back home, even if she ended up in London she would be happy just so long as she was in England. She re-read the message noting that it was a little flirty, but I mean they were just friends right? Alessia’s face went bright red while reading her coach’s message, it was definitely flirty and she knew how to respond. ‘Would we be able to watch the next Newcastle game in the theatre then?’ Alessia bit her lip waiting for the next text, the bubble appeared and disappeared a few times after a few long minutes she got a response from Willa. ‘Deal, we can watch the next Manchester game too, it might be a City game though because sometimes I get confused with crap teams ;)’ Alessia squealed as she read the text, Lotte looked over at her friend. “You okay?” Alessia nodded and smiled. “Yeah, I just saw something I wanted in an ad.” She lied and messaged back. ‘I will educate you, coach.’ Alessia put her phone away and rejoined the conversation with her teammates. 

During the game Willa took notes for both Jennifer and to take some of the tactics back to UNC. Orlando won 2-0 and Jennifer assisted a goal, honestly she was slotting into the NWSL perfectly. After the game Jennifer walked out in her tracksuit and polo shirt from Orlando Pride, she wrapped her arms around Willa and kissed her. “Babe you had an amazing game, the way you set up that goal and cleared the line was great.” Jennifer smiled wide. “Thank you baby girl.” Willa and Jennifer headed back to the apartment, they got changed for a team dinner and went to the local Italian restaurant. Willa sat next to Jennifer and Alanna Kennedy who was on the Orlando Pride team sat on the other side of Jennifer. A couple of the players spoke to Willa during the dinner, Ashlyn Harris and Ali Krieger were both very interested in Willa’s work at UNC and her history at UCLA. In comparison Jennifer was talking quietly with Alanna, her back was to Willa and no interest was shown by Jennifer towards her girlfriend. Willa tried to listen to the other conversations as the night went on and join in but she wasn’t close with the girls and struggled to fit in. Willa leant over and touched Jennifer’s thigh, the girl looked almost annoyed by Willa’s touch, “Baby I am heading back to your place, I have to leave early sorry.” She kissed Jennifer and wished everyone a lovely rest of the night. Jennifer mumbled a quick goodnight and focused back onto Alanna. As she waited for her Uber she looked through Alessia’s instagram, she smiled as she saw the girl’s pictures from her junior days for England. She liked an old picture of her wearing a Manchester United shirt and messaged the girl. ‘Manchester is blue.’ She knew the girl wouldn’t message back because it was so late she should be in bed.

Jennifer didn’t get back to the apartment until three in the morning, she got straight into bed without a word in just her underwear. Willa hoped that nothing happened between her and Alanna but it would be convenient to cut ties. Before leaving that morning, Willa put on the coffee machine so that when Jennifer woke up the coffee would be ready. She kissed Jennifer gently and left a note saying thank you and told her she loved her. In the car ride to the airport a text popped up on her phone from Alessia, ‘Manchester is red. Also I hope Newcastle lose today x’ Willa smiled at the message and replied. ‘That is just hurtful Alessia, don’t make me punish you with laps at training tomorrow.’ Alessia went bright red as she read the text, thinking of a punishment she wouldn’t mind receiving from the coach, might even be more cardio work than laps. 

The following day Willa got to training early and saw the blonde striker practising. “Oi, head over the ball, you aren’t punting an American football.” The blonde turned around to the coach. “Nice to see you are back from your little vacation.” Alessia had her hands on her hips as Willa approached her. “Eh, it wasn't much of a vacation. Jennifer spent most of the time on her phone or talking to her teammates.” Willa juggled a ball then kicked it towards Alessia. “You should have just watched the game on tv.” Alessia replied slightly annoyed with the current topic of Jennifer. “Yeah I should have, then at least I could have worked with the team.” She put her foot on top of the ball. “October 7.” Willa said and Alessia replied with a confused look. “Manchester and Newcastle are playing, I put a booking in for the theatre.” Alessia’s face lit up. “Oh perfect! When United wins you have to wear a Manchester United shirt.” Willa laughed. “I will never wear a bloody Manchester United shirt, not for anyone, not even you Alessia Russo.” Willa kicked the ball towards Alessia and they both laughed. The rest of the team slowly made their way towards the pair ready for training to begin. Willa pulled a few players off the field to have a chat about things to work on, Alessia slightly jealous that she didn’t get a chance to chat to the coach.

The month leading into the UNC season became a little more intense as they lifted their work rate at training. Willa tried to catch up with Jennifer but their schedules didn’t line up as well as what she hoped, Jennifer seemed to have team sessions more frequently than she did at the beginning of the season, must just be wanting to increase their work rate. The training prior to the game the team line up was read out, Alessia wasn’t starting, Willa saw the girl’s face fall when she realised. The girls went onto the training pitch with a focus on set pieces beginning with the starting team. Willa worked with the players who would be starting on the bench, Alessia seemed somewhat distant from Willa during the session. At the end as the girls were leaving Willa grabbed Alessia’s wrist before she left, “Hey you okay?” The blonde shrugged. “Yeah I am fine, just surprised is all, didn’t think after how well you said I was doing that I would be on the bench against Providence.” Alessia pulled her arm away. “Well if you wanted to have a chat about why then I am happy to tell you.” Willa crossed her arms over her chest slightly pissed off by the girl’s reaction. “Well I’m all ears Coach.” Alessia turned to face Willa. “Your shots are either at the goalkeeper or missing over the bar, Julia Ashley is hitting the ball cleanly and causing a lot of headaches for defenders at the moment. I need - we need more from you.” Willa said bluntly. “Fine, then you’ll get more.” Alessia walked back to the changerooms to shower. She needed the calming shower after the frustrating conversation with Willa, there is no way that Julia was better than her.

When Alessia had gotten changed and was walking past Willa’s office she heard her talking to Anson. “Alessia’s work off the ball is exactly what we need. She is aggressive and can beat defenders with raw power, not just fancy footwork. We need her on the field.” Alessia heard Anson’s reply loud and clear. “I need her to show me that she can turn defenders, work with her on that hold up play and she’ll have that consistent starting position.” Anson walked out and Alessia hid in a doorway, once he was gone she began walking past the office again. “Hey Alessia can I grab you for a second?” Willa walked out of her office to the blonde. “Yeah, of course.” She followed Willa into her office and sat on the couch, Willa sat at her desk. “Okay so, to be completely transparent I think you are a bloody brilliant player with potential to be the next Ellen White and Kelly Smith. But there are a couple things we need to work on. I am more than willing to do extra sessions to get you there but I need you to be on board too.” Alessia took in the massive compliment that was just paid to her and she nodded. “Yeah I am down to do that.” Willa smiled. “Perfect, we get started the day after the game. Don’t worry either, you will be playing.” Alessia stood and headed towards the door of the office. “I am sorry for being a bit rude before, I was just frustrated.” Willa stood in front of the girl and Alessia could smell her perfume. “I get it, I was benched once at UCLA and kind of lost my shit. At least you were calmish about it.” She winked at Alessia. “Head up, Russo, get some sleep, big game tomorrow.” Alessia walked back to her dorm a little lighter and with her heart racing. Willa’s heart raced like it hadn't for a long time, she was in trouble.

CHAPTER 4

[jaywritesrps]

Everything I hear and see about Ashlyn makes it seem like she's not a great person. Like, she couldn't even tell her wife of however many years that she was divorcing her??? And she took off proud mom from her instagram bio when she left her wife? Sophia, girl, of all the women in the world...

It's because she isn't. I was starting to like her again when I saw Marta, the most lovable and carefree person in the woso world, ignoring Ashlyn's comments and posting pictures with Ali's in FIFA's the best. It was when I decided to use my journalist's skills to find out more about what was going on in the woso backstage.

The story I heard from some friends in woso world is far worse than what went to public. Like, no wonder nearly everyone in that universe don't want anything to do with her and I believe the story it's true cause I heard a lot of personal sources who are connected to six different teams and USSF, and especially the sources connected to the NWSL teams, they told pretty much the same story, some with more details than other, but overall it was the same story.

Since Ali told part of it, I can share some here. The thing is when they talked about their relationship in early 2023, Ali and Ash agreed to wait until the season was over to decide on what to do about their relationship. Ashlyn never said she wanted out, so to Ali's side, this meant as "let's figure our shit out", when to Ashlyn's side this meant "we are going to divorce".

My source from USSF said that there was rumors on Pride around Ashlyn infidelity since early 2021, so they think that might be one of the reasons they went to NY/NJ at the end of the season, while my source from Orlando said that never heard about those rumors, although some players and team crew took very personally their departure to Gotham FC, not to a point to see Ashlyn as ungrateful, but also not more as willing to defend her as they were before - and I will highlight that she said Ashlyn nominally, not them, they, the couple or Ashlyn and Ali.

Also my source connected to Gotham told me, that the whole story Ashlyn said in her statement of "we were together to keep contracts" and yada yada yada is BS to the public, cause they never really talked about the commercial part until september when the rumors around Ashlyn and Sophia started, cause it was when the Gotham Player's conscientiously ignored her in EA's Party. Even until then she never really communicated to her wife she wanted the divorce. It's why Ali really thought they were going to sit down and talk, cause how can you say you are married to a horrible person and schedule a couple trip to Mexico? (Remember that trip Ali made with Kyle at the end of the season? It supposed to be a family cruise, but she changed to a couple's retreat in July as a way for them to fix their marriage.)

It's why I strong believe that Ashlyn was leading Sophia and Ali on, it doesn't matter if it was intentional or not, but this is a big red flag for a person. Like one of my sources said that Ashlyn probably was trying to keep both relationships and choose the one who was more profitable to her at the end, I wasn't sold on this belief, but I am now after the restaurant's story from deux moi and how Sophia is working to clean Ashlyn's image to the public, even though most of her fans doesn't want anything to do with her. (Personal gossip here: A group of friend of mine are attending at SXSW cause Lucy Lawless was going to be there and Fallout panel and told me that a rumor running around is that they had an open spot and they pulled a panel about women's sport just to fit Ashlyn in and keep Sophia as their speaker, but no one really wanted it or care enough about it. They said they are going to attend on it today if they have nothing better to do.)

And Honestly, I am happy Sophia is happy, but ffs man, like if half of the stuff I heard is true, I really hope Sophia is helping her to growing up as person, because I still don't see this ending well to Sophia.

[hyperfixationsstation]

i just read this article and like was the “wrinkle” not like obvious i thought this was known???

anyways orlando pride sitting there like

[hardtchill]

My question would be who/what would you consider the best soccer in the NWSL? I feel like what this season really showed was there was a shocking amount of parity in the league. The Orlando Pride handily beat the traditional "top" teams on occasion. Angel City who has clear consistency issues destroyed the Thorns to end the season. Even the Wave who won the shield went through an ugly patch. People can certainly have their opinions to who is the best in the league but I think the numbers show it's in large part a toss up and like most sports the playoffs favor teams who get hot towards the end.

there is a regular season for a reason, if after 22 games you top the league it's safe to say you were the best during that season. SD beat the eventual champions by 6 points and Gotham didn't even have a strong end of the season. Yeah, you can say it's 'only' 6 points and that speaks for the parity in the league but that's still two whole games and a -8 goal average they would have had to overcome to win the shield.

A play off system is already in a way unfair (unless there is equal recognition for the shield winner) and you make it more unfair by having the set up they do.

Gotham and also Reign got an edge in the play offs due to the schedule and that just shouldn't happen.

[bongaboi]

Orlando Pride: 2024 NWSL Champions

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Barbra Banda's goal stood up as the winner to lift the Orlando Pride to their first NWSL Championship in a 1-0 victory over the Washington Spirit on Saturday at CPKC Stadium.

With the win, the Pride became the first team since 2019 to follow up winning the NWSL Shield (best regular-season team) with an NWSL Championship, and the third time it has ever happened.

It also meant a first NWSL Championship for six-time world player of the year Marta, 38, who has been with the Pride since 2017.

"I f---ing waited eight years for this moment," the player from Brazil said during the trophy presentation. "[It's] most special because it's the first time my mom is in America."

She added after the match: "Incredible moment. Playing the championship final, take this trophy home and share this moment with my mom, it's something in my best dream, I [can't] believe. … This moment, it's so special for me.

"This moment gave me so many answers. I've been in Orlando for so long and I see players come and leave. We had ups and downs. Some seasons we were OK but not good enough.

"I always ask myself what I'm looking for because I stay in Orlando. I was not satisfied with all of the other seasons. I feel like I don't want to leave this place without doing something really big. … Tonight I had all the answers."

Banda broke the deadlock in the 37th minute when she latched onto a ball played in behind by midfielder Angelina. Banda cut back inside onto her left foot and distanced herself from Spirit defender Esme Morgan to hit a left-footed shot that beat Spirit goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury.

The goal was Banda's fourth of the playoffs, setting a new single postseason NWSL record, and earned her the Championship MVP award. She also scored in all three playoff games this postseason, which is a new league record.

"That was a great moment for me," Banda said. "As that ball came for me, I don't hesitate. I always want to take on the defenders, so I saw that opportunity and I had to put the ball into the back of the net. I saw the positioning of the goalkeeper, so it was great for me."

"For us," Marta quickly interjected, drawing a laugh from the room.

Spirit head coach Jonatan Giráldez argued with the fourth official following the goal, which came after a strong challenge from Angelina on Spirit midfielder Leicy Santos.

"For me, it's an excuse to speak about the physical conditions," Giráldez said after the match.

Kingsbury took blame for conceding the goal, saying it should have been a "routine save" before moments later Morgan said the goal was her fault.

"I think that's what I'm finding so frustrating, replaying in my head, is that we dealt with [Banda] so well for most of the 90 minutes barring just the goal and I'm kicking myself for it," Morgan said.

"I think I was just thinking in my head back to the away game, there's times where she goes down softly in the box so I was kind of reluctant to get too tight in case there was a dive involved."

The physical first half featured 14 combined fouls and three yellow cards.

Spirit forward Rosemonde Kouassi was cautioned in the 28th minute for dragging down Banda on a counterattack.

Three minutes later, Pride defender Kerry Abello received a yellow card for an open-field trip of Spirit forward Trinity Rodman.

Washington midfielder Hal Hershfelt entered the books for a hard challenge only moments before halftime.

Orlando's victory completed a turnaround for what was one of the league's worst clubs historically in years past. The Pride made the playoffs only once prior to this season, in 2017, and endured low points like a last-place finish in 2019 with a league-record 53 goals conceded.

This year, the Pride set multiple NWSL records, including points in a season (60), wins (18), consecutive wins (eight) and games unbeaten to start the season (23).

"I wish I could say when I got here [in 2021], I believed this club was going to turn it around, but there were times where we were at rock bottom, and I couldn't see any light," Pride defender Kylie Strom said.

"So, to go from that place to where we are now, I have no words to describe it. It is incredible and we're going to keep going. We're never going back."

Washington nearly equalized two minutes into the second half, when Kouassi got her head on Rodman's cross at the 6-yard box, but Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse made a quick reaction save.

Orlando came close to doubling its lead near the hour mark when Banda broke free again in the open field. Marta, playing in her first NWSL Championship, sprinted to join her on the counterattack, but Banda did not play the ball centrally to her open teammate.

The Pride held on as Washington pushed for a late equalizer. Orlando had not lost when leading at halftime in 15 previous occasions this season.

Orlando is the fourth team in league history to win in its first NWSL Championship appearance.

Washington appeared in two previous finals, winning the title in 2021.

The Pride's championship is the first for an Orlando professional sports team. The team will be honored with a parade in downtown Orlando on Monday.

[marta10]

marta, toni and ali

[adahegerbergfc]

2021 Season💜

[4stars-uswnt]

can the uswnt not injure each other three months before the olympics? please and thank you :)

[meazalykov]

social media series

barcelona femení x barca!exmancity!reader

part one

summary: reader loves having an aesthetic and authentic instagram

warnings: just pretend it's you in the pictures ❤️.

y/n.l/n

liked by kerstin_casparij, bunnyshaw, and 54,927 others

y/n.l/n loving costa rica during the summer break 🌊

view comments

❤️ *liked by author*

bunnyshaw 😍

❤️ *liked by author*

jillroord what were we pointing at

y/n.l/n no idea

wosonews so are you renewing with man city orrrrr

mccabefan5637 I heard barcelona rumors 🥲

wobbwosotalks soccerdonna said its either barcelona or she's going somewhere in the nwsl 😢

viscabarca178 come to barcelona 💙❤️

fotosforwomensport 🤩😍🥰

❤️ *liked by author*

lj10 the aestheticcc 👏

upthechel14 convince y/n to come to chelsea 😂

❤️ *liked by author*

ingrid_engen 😍😍😍😍😍

y/n.l/n 🩵

putellasdor this linkup next season will be scary but not for barcelona

user462819247201 why go to barcelona when you can stand out in a club like orlando?

wosotransfers are the rumors true 👀

~view all 2,123 comments~

june 17th, 2023

soccerdonna

liked by esmeebrugts, wosonews2, and 55,292 others

soccerdonna "Exclusive : Our sources indicate that FC Barcelona is on the verge of signing (reader's nationality) international Y/n L/n.

As the 22-year-old has only one year left on her contract, it would be the last option to generate a transfer fee. Bayern Munich and Orlando Pride in the NWSL were also interested in L/n."

view comments

mancitysupport516 she's probably using barcelona to get more money out of a renewal

foordmccabe2727 good for y/n honestly

y/nsupporters not the soccerdonna post omggg

user36373118383 I don't want y/n to leave the wsl 😢

barcalove2830 welcome to barcelona 💙

gogogogo99 can barcelona afford her transfer fee?

user6372890193998 if they're interested now then probably, especially with the exit of a few players

arsenalfoxes4 barcelona is kind of crazy for getting batlle and l/n

brugtsengenleon3727 the bonmati l/n linkup should be illegal.

l/nfan6622 can we wait until the World Cup ends to talk about this lmfao

putellasdor y/n is going for the ballon d'or 2025 🫡

~view all 782 comments~

june 21st, 2023

y/n.l/n (you're rose #16 in the first pic, and lindsey #10 in the others)

liked by lynnwilliams9, mraphinoe, and 265,289 others

y/n.l/n heartbroken would be an understatement. promise i will do better on penalties. thank you to those who believed in us, and congrats to sweden on making it to the quarterfinals. :)

view comments

uswntfan3728 sources say your penalty kick ball landed on the moon

fcbfemmen77 barca cannot make you a pen kicker

bonmatiskills99 of course not, I don't think man city ever made her a pen kicker

alexmorgan13 ❤️❤️❤️❤️

mraphinoe love u

user11622 you did amazing regardless of what happened during the pens against sweden

~view all 4,910 comments~

august 8th, 2023

y/n.l/n

liked by georgiastanway, lena_oberdorf, and 52,281 others

y/n.l/n manchester, thank you for the special three years I had with you. to my teammates, staff, and coaches thank you for your support. you've pushed me everyday to be the best on and off of the pitch. I have so much love for all of you. to the supporters, thank you for your unconditional support. home games felt special with you watching. i am grateful for the time I have had with you all.

I love you, #17 signing out.

view comments

wosofanz omg?!!!????

georgiastanway ❤️

chloekelly we love you too 😊🩵

barcafemeniuser3627 welcome to barcelona 💙❤️

soccerdonna 🫡💙❤️🚨👀

jillroord 🥲❤️

mancitysupporter you will be missed! thank you for everything

maryfowlerrr my bestie 🥺🩵🩵

user362728 welcome home 💙❤️

~view all 3,928 comments~

august 12th, 2023

(again.. pretend its you and your name in the picture, not kika)

fcbfemeni & y/n.l/n

liked by ingrid_engen, alexiaputellas, and 61,341 others

fcbfemeni y/n is culer 💙❤️

view comments

alexiaputellas ❤️

fcbfan58 this has been teased for the last couple of transfer windows so I am happy that she is here

ingrid_engen 😍

janafernandez3 👏😍

wosocoouples82627 looks like y/n gets to play with the other girlfriend this season

user272919 bayern would've suited her better ✋

random90210 shut up!

uswntsupport271819 our girl 😭❤️❤️

~view all 3,337 comments~

august 13th, 2023

part two of the series here

I do not own any of the photos used for this fic.

[that-soccer-guru]

Here's a challenge then - favorite Sonny moment from 2020?

Oh shit, do you mean on or off the field?

I had a big moment of "well not much has happened this year" BUT GUESS WHAT. THIS YEAR HAS BEEN LONG AND A LOT HAS HAPPENED.

If you ask me though her most iconic was the Pride Stan Curse during the Challenge Cup, particularly those videos that have the Sonnett Crack Energy vibe. Everything else might have been the Pride's Social media interns or something but some of those posts had BIG SONNETT ENERGY.

[skopurp]

why tf is our defense just walking

[var-stan]

For those who need a reminder, as fans it is not our job to speculate or figure out which players may or may not have covid, or who may or may not be responsible for the situation in Orlando. Moreover, it is not our job to comment on their fault or hold them accountable, and it is certainly not fair to hassle and harass them. I’m sure the Pride organisation and the NWSL are handling it as they see fit, you do not need to enact your own type of justice.