10 Women’s Football Transfers You Might Have Missed During the Men’s World Cup

Women’s Football Transfers That Went Under the Radar Amid Men’s World Cup Hype

The 2026 men’s World Cup, held across the US, Canada, and Mexico, dominated headlines and global football conversations throughout June and July. However, amidst the excitement and spectacle of the men’s tournament, the women’s game saw a wave of significant transfers that may have escaped the attention of many fans.

While the high-profile moves of Sam Kerr and Alexia Putellas were widely reported, several other transfers deserve recognition for their potential impact on the women’s football scene. Here, we highlight 10 noteworthy transfers that flew under the radar during the men’s World Cup period.

Key Transfers in Women’s Football

• Beth Mead: The England international made a notable switch from Arsenal to Manchester City, strengthening City’s attacking options ahead of the new season.
• Mary Earps: The goalkeeper returned to the Women’s Super League, joining London City Lionesses, a move that bolsters the club’s defensive stability.
• Georgia Stanway: Another WSL returnee, Stanway moved to Arsenal, adding creativity and depth to their midfield lineup.
• Sam Kerr: The Australian forward left Chelsea to rejoin Gotham FC, marking a significant shift back to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in the United States.
• Alexia Putellas: Perhaps the most groundbreaking move, Putellas departed Barcelona to join London City, a transfer that signals a game-changing moment in women’s football.

These transfers, alongside others, are reshaping the competitive balance in women’s leagues across Europe and North America. The influx of talent into clubs like London City and Manchester City highlights increasing investment and ambition within the women’s game.

Beyond the Headlines

While the men’s World Cup understandably attracted the lion’s share of media coverage, these quieter moves demonstrate the growing professionalism and dynamism in women’s football. Fans and analysts alike should keep a close eye on how these transfers influence the upcoming seasons, both in domestic leagues and on the international stage.

As the women’s game continues to expand its global footprint, these signings represent more than just player movements—they are milestones in the sport’s evolution, promising thrilling competition and enhanced visibility.

For a full list of transfers and detailed insights, visit the original article on The Guardian.