London City Lionesses Make History with Grace Geyoro Signing
In a groundbreaking move for women’s football, the London City Lionesses have announced the signing of French international Grace Geyoro from Paris St-Germain for a record fee of £1.4 million. This landmark transfer not only marks Geyoro as the most expensive female footballer to date but also emphasizes the increasing financial investment in women’s sports.
Breaking Records and Setting Trends
The signing of Geyoro surpasses the previous record of £1.1 million set by the Orlando Pride when they acquired Mexican winger Lizbeth Ovalle from Tigres UANL. This summer has been notable for its rapid shifts in the women’s football landscape, with the record for transfers being broken multiple times. Earlier in July, Olivia Smith made headlines as the first £1 million signing when she joined Arsenal from Liverpool, underlining the growing market for female talent.
A Busy Summer for the Lionesses
Grace Geyoro’s acquisition is part of a significant recruitment drive by London City, who have been keen to bolster their squad following their recent promotion to the Women’s Super League (WSL). Geyoro is the club’s 16th permanent signing this summer, aided by their American owner Michele Kang’s substantial investment.
Among London City’s recent high-profile additions are players like Jana Fernandez from Barcelona, Danielle van de Donk from Lyon, and former Manchester United captain Katie Zelem. The club seems determined to establish itself as a competitive force in the WSL right from the outset.
Grace Geyoro: A Footballing Prodigy
At 28, Geyoro brings a wealth of experience and skill to London City. With 103 caps for France and 22 goals to her name, she’s not just a player but a formidable asset on the pitch. Her impressive international career includes appearances in two World Cups and two European Championships, making her a seasoned competitor in high-pressure situations. Geyoro is also set to represent her country at the 2024 Olympics, adding even more prestige to her profile.
More than Just a Signing
Geyoro isn’t the only notable player to join London City in the final hours of the transfer window. The club also managed to sign Spain international Lucia Corrales by activating her release clause from Barcelona, paying approximately £430,000 for the 19-year-old. Corrales is a graduate of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, known for producing top-tier talent. Having made her full debut for Spain in March, she brings youthful vigor and potential to the Lionesses’ lineup.
Geyoro’s PSG Legacy
Before her move to London City, Grace Geyoro spent a significant part of her career at PSG, joining the club at just 15. Over nearly 270 appearances, she scored 54 goals and contributed to the team’s triumph in three French Cups while also being a finalist in the UEFA Champions League on two occasions. Her career at PSG has set high expectations for her impact in the WSL.
Upcoming Challenges and Opportunities
With London City’s first WSL match against Arsenal set for Saturday, the anticipation for Geyoro’s debut is palpable. Football fans will be keenly watching as she could take the field again on Sunday, September 14, at home against Manchester United, a game that promises to showcase her exceptional skills and the team’s new potential.
In summary, Grace Geyoro’s historic signing is a clear indication that the women’s football landscape is evolving rapidly. As clubs invest more in talent and create competitive teams, fans can look forward to an exciting future in women’s sports, particularly in the WSL, where London City Lionesses are poised to make their mark.