NINA NIJSTAD HEADS FOR AMERICA

Nina spent three seasons with PSV, playing a key role last season in the club claiming the first league title in its history. In 2024, she made her debut for the OranjeLeeuwinnen.

Thanks in part to those successes, Nina was one of the most sought-after players on the transfer market this summer. There was concrete interest from several international clubs. During the conversations, it quickly became clear that Portland Thorns was the right call for Nina. Not just because of the sporting plans, but also because of the people within the organisation and the sheer commitment of the supporters. Playing in front of thousands of fans every week in one of the fastest-growing leagues in the world ultimately tipped the scales.

The National Women's Soccer League is one of the strongest competitions in the world and draws plenty of international top talent thanks to its high level of professionalism and investment. Nina sees the American league as an environment that best suits her qualities as a player. The NWSL is known for its high intensity and physical style of play, a perfect fit for the way she plays the game. Portland Thorns currently hold third place in the table.

SEG FLOWSPORTS founder Leoni Blokhuis said: "It was a long road, partly because Nina still had two years left on her contract at PSV. There was a lot involved in this transfer, so we're delighted we got the deal over the line. It's obviously not a move just around the corner, but that's exactly what makes it such a great and challenging choice. We're convinced the NWSL is a fantastic environment for Nina to keep growing. We're proud to have guided her through this process and we're looking forward to following her development at Portland."