Mia Fishel is joining Seattle Reign FC from Chelsea on a permanent transfer, signing a long-term deal through 2029 that reportedly will make her the highest-paid player in the NWSL.
Fishel, welcomed in the official announcement to Seattle as “Big Fish,” will reach cumulative earnings of $2.5 million over the lifetime of the contract, ESPN reported, which would exceed the $2 million total value of Mallory Swanson’s deal in Chicago.
“I’m incredibly excited to sign a long-term contract in the NWSL and take this next step in my career with Seattle Reign FC,” Fishel, a San Diego native, said in a team-issued statement Thursday. “This league is one of the best in the world, and I’m looking forward to the opportunity. I can’t wait to get started and contribute to the team’s success.”
Fishel, 24, is a forward for the U.S. Women’s National Team and was the fifth overall selection in the 2022 NWSL Draft by the Orlando Pride. She chose to instead begin a professional career with Tigres UANL in Liga MX Femenil, winning the Golden Boot and Apertura title in 2022. She missed most of her two seasons with Chelsea with a torn ACL that happened while training with the USWNT for the CONCACAF Gold Cup in February 2024.
“We’re pleased to bring Mia Fishel to Seattle Reign FC,” said Lesle Gallimore, Reign general manager. “Mia is a player with tremendous upside – a goal-scorer with presence, creativity and a drive to keep growing. This move represents an important step in her return to top form, and we’re committed to giving her the environment and support to thrive. We believe in her ability to make a real impact in the NWSL and are looking forward to what she’ll bring to the club and our fans.”
USWNT Emma Hayes was the head coach at Chelsea when the club paid a $250,000 transfer fee, bringing Fishel from Tigres in 2023. Chelsea receives an undisclosed transfer fee from the Seattle Reign in the latest transaction.
Swanson signed a four-year deal with a team option to join the Red Stars in 2024. It was the first four-year contract in league history, raising the bar for earnings in the NWSL.
In Liga MX Femenil, Fishel scored 17 goals in 17 matches and became the first foreign player to claim the Golden Boot. She was a two-time All-American at UCLA. She scored 32 goals with 14 assists in 59 career games.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to bring Mia into our squad,” Reign coach Laura Harvey said. “She’s a forward with world-class potential who’s already accomplished so much in her young career. Mia’s ability to disrupt defenses, finish in different ways makes her a dangerous addition to our group. We’re excited to help her take the next step and can’t wait to see her on the field soon.”
–Field Level Media
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