Yazmeen Ryan (Houston Dash)
For a side that finished bottom of the table last term, with the least number of goals scored, getting a creative outlet through the door was a must. By 25, Yazmeen Ryan was already a two-time Championship winner with the Portland Thorns and Gotham respectively, playing a crucial role in each side’s successful season.
Last term, the American enjoyed an impressive return of five goals and six assists, prompting a call-up to the national team where she made her debut in late 2024. It is evident that she comes to Houston as part of a project as opposed to a finished project, but for the Texas club, it is invaluable to bring on board a player with this level of consistency and versatility. A fee in the region of an NWSL record shows their commitment to building a team around Ryan.
Realistically speaking, the Dash have a long way to go before challenging for the league title having spent the last two seasons outside of the playoffs. Having said that, though, Ryan joined Gotham in 2023, months after they finished bottom with a meagre 13 points. As the incredible story goes, they went on to win the Championship title – Ryan making the most appearances of any player in that squad across an unbelievable run. Could lightning strike twice for the 26-year-old?