The Washington Spirit have announced the early return of dynamic Nigerian midfielder Deborah Abiodun from her loan spell at Dallas Trinity FC of the Gainbridge Super League. The recall comes four months ahead of schedule, signaling the Spirit’s intent to strengthen their squad as the push toward the decisive stretch of the 2025 NWSL season intensifies.
Abiodun, one of Africa’s brightest young football stars, rejoins the Spirit just weeks after writing her name into Nigerian football history as part of the Super Falcons’ triumphant squad at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. Her energy, relentless ball-winning ability, and composure in midfield were key to Nigeria’s record-extending continental dominance, making her return to Washington one of the most highly anticipated roster moves of the season.
During her loan stint in Texas, the 21-year-old midfielder proved her resilience and adaptability in a new league, logging more than 750 minutes across 14 appearances, including eight starts for Dallas Trinity FC. Her contributions earned her praise from coaches and pundits alike, as she demonstrated the same qualities that first attracted the Spirit to her: tenacity, tactical intelligence, and maturity beyond her years.
Spirit Interim General Manager Nathan Minion expressed excitement at the recall:
“We’re thrilled to bring Deb back to the Spirit as we approach the home stretch of the 2025 season. After following her impressive performances with Dallas and Nigeria this year, we know Deb will fit very well with this team and help us accomplish our goals.”
Signed by Washington Spirit in January on a three-year contract with a 2028 option, Abiodun was one of the club’s most significant acquisitions ahead of the 2025 campaign. She arrived after two standout NCAA seasons at the University of Pittsburgh, where she established herself as a midfield powerhouse, earning national recognition for her box-to-box style.
On the international stage, Abiodun has quickly blossomed into one of the most trusted midfielders for the Nigerian women’s national team. She featured in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, was part of the squad that competed at the 2024 Summer Olympics, and capped off a remarkable international rise by helping Nigeria clinch the 2025 WAFCON title earlier this summer.
For the Spirit, Abiodun’s return could not come at a better time. Washington are firmly in the hunt for a playoff spot and will also be balancing commitments in the CONCACAF Women’s Champions League, where squad depth will prove crucial. With her trademark aggression in midfield and ability to transition play quickly, Abiodun is expected to add both stability and creativity to the side.
The Spirit will look to harness her energy and championship-winning mentality this Sunday, August 31, when they host Chicago Stars FC at Audi Field (kickoff 4 p.m.). The clash marks the club’s annual Community Celebration Match, where fans are expected to pack the stands and welcome Abiodun back in Spirit colors.
