Trinity Rodman is only 22, yet she’s already accomplished feats in the NWSL that many players spend an entire career chasing. She talks about the future with a calm but determined tone. She knows something more is out there and wants to find it.
“I’ve always thought about playing overseas at some point in my career,” Rodman said recently. “I think I would kick myself if I retired and hadn’t done that.” It’s the kind of declaration that fuels discussions about when, not if, one of the league’s most exciting young forwards will jump to Europe.
Rodman’s current deal, reportedly worth around $1.1 million over its term, keeps her in Washington for now. Yet, major European clubs have been circling, eager to match or even exceed that amount. The transfer of her United States teammate Naomi Girma to Chelsea for $1.1 million only added to the buzz. “Nay has just been outstanding for years,” Rodman said. “I’m so proud of her and I’m so happy.”
Rodman poised for European move
For Rodman, the appeal isn’t just the money. It’s the chance to test herself in leagues where top women’s teams often compete in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. She’s watched friends and fellow stars like Crystal Dunn and Jenna Nighswonger make the jump. Onlookers say it’s natural for someone so driven to consider that path. The familiarity of home never fades.
She’s also aware that her decision will spark strong emotions. Washington supporters adore her attack and fearless style and aren’t ready to imagine a Spirit lineup without her. Some fans still hope she’ll sign a new contract that keeps her in D.C. for at least a few more seasons. Others have accepted the reality that the global stage is calling.
Rodman’s current focus remains on winning an NWSL title with the Spirit, who fell just short in the final last season. She was vocal about the team’s need for stronger communication in that decisive match, saying, “I think in that last game, what we had struggled with was finding someone on the team to lean on in terms of being mentally locked in.” She wants to be the go-to leader now.
Outside the lines, she’ll continue to weigh her options. She’s still young enough to play in Europe and eventually return if she chooses, much like other U.S. internationals have done. Her contract situation and her desire to grow on the biggest stages factor into when she’ll jump overseas.
Rodman knows big decisions lie ahead, and she’s not rushing them. For now, she’s content doing what she does best, scoring goals and setting up teammates, with an unspoken confidence that the right moment to board a plane to Europe will appear.
