NWSL: Washington Spirit signs first Italian player in league history in Sofia Cantore
- Dan Stickradt
- Jun 17
- 2 min read
NATIONAL SOCCER NEWS: www.nationalsoccernetwork.com
WASHINGTON — The Washington Spirit has signed Italian forward Sofia Cantore from Juventus FC to a three-year deal with a club option for 2028, the club announced Monday.
Cantore, 25, will officially join the Spirit on July 1 when the FIFA summer transfer window opens. The deal includes a transfer fee and will see Cantore occupy an international roster slot with the NWSL side. She becomes the first Italian player in league history.
“Sofia is an important signing for this Spirit team as we continue to build up our roster to compete for trophies,” said new Spirit head coach Adrián González in a statement. “Her extensive experience in the Italian leagues and exceptional talent in the attacking third will help add a new layer for the Spirit moving forward.”
Born in Lecco in northern Italy, Cantore brings a decade of professional experience, beginning her career with Fiammamonza in 2015 before signing with Juventus in 2017. She spent time on loan with Hellas Verona, Florentia, and Sassuolo, and has totaled more than 40 goals and 20 assists in over 120 career appearances. She added two goals in the 2024–25 UEFA Women’s Champions League campaign with Juventus.
"I'm very proud to join this important club and grateful for their trust in my abilities,” Cantore said. “I'm excited to start this new chapter of my career as the first Italian player in the NWSL and can't wait to work every day with coach Adrián González and my new teammates.”
Cantore has earned 37 caps with the Italian national team, scoring five goals since her senior debut in December 2020.
The Spirit's next home match is set for Aug. 3 against Portland Thorns FC at Audi Field, following the NWSL’s summer break. The team will also host an open training session July 19 at George Mason University.
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