By OkayGoal 
Women’s soccer isn’t just born with legends who span across different clubs and leagues. Once upon a time, the greats we know today began their journeys as rising stars who shook up the game and made it their own.
And as we, fellow fans and sports lovers, wait patiently for these stars to make their mark, it’s essential to give them their props in the meantime. Curious about who should be on your radar? Here are seven next-generation women’s soccer players you should know.
1. Alyssa Thompson
At 20 years old, Alyssa Thompson was called to the senior USWNT team. Before this, she played for the U-20 squad at the U-20 World Cup. Thompson decided to forgo her college eligibility and entered the 2023 NWSL draft, resulting in her playing for Angel City FC after being the first overall pick according to The Guardian.
In 2023, Thompson left an impact, scoring four goals and having two assists during 21 games. It’s no surprise Thompson is part of the USWNT and has been called for it several times. Her ability to avoid defenders is one of the many talents that make her a force to be reckoned with.
2. Salma Paralluelo
Salma Paralluelo, at age 21, won the Women’s World Cup with Spain and scored in the quarter-final and semi-final matches. She has won many titles with Barcelona, where she is a key player. Paralluelo’s speed and finishing ability are among her best qualities. There is no doubt that she will leave a legacy behind her as she grows older.
3. Linda Caicedo
Colombia’s Linda Caicedo signed with Real Madrid after several clubs were interested in her. When she was 18, she was named player of the tournament at the 2022 Copa América Femenina. Caicedo also earned her spot in The Guardian’s 100 best female footballers in the world 2024 list.
4. Lauren James
Chelsea’s Lauren James’ injuries may have kept her off the pitch for a while, but her comeback is one to watch. According to the Olympics’ official website, Emma Hayes labeled James “the most naturally gifted footballer in the country.”
And even though she received a red card in the 2023 World Cup, her talent is undeniable, as she scored three goals before that with England. Once James is healed up, there is no doubt she has a bright future ahead of her.
5. Mary Fowler
The 22-year-old Mary Fowler is known for giving one outstanding performance after another. At 15, Fowler made her debut for Australia, and the rest was history. She was crucial to the national team’s journey in the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Fowler also booked a spot for herself in Manchester City’s roster, which isn’t easy to do. Fans will be waiting for her to return from her ACL injury which she got in a match against Manchester United, according to The Guardian.
6. Melchie Dumornay
Melchie Dumornay started her career playing in Haiti for fun, but quickly found her way to professional soccer. She now plays for Olympique Lyonnais, one of the best teams in the Champions League. Since 2020, Dumornay has been part of Haiti’s squad, and her scoring abilities speak for itself.
7. Jaedyn Shaw
Jaedyn Shaw is a young talent the North Carolina Courage is lucky to have. Before them, she signed with the San Diego Wave when she was just 17 years old. During her time there, she managed to win the NWSL Shield and NWSL Challenge Cup with the team. She was also named the NWSL Best XI in 2023 according to the NWSL’s official website.
Along with representing the USWNT at the youth level, she also made it to the senior team and won a gold medal at the Olympics with the USWNT.
Who is your favorite rising star? Let us know in the comments!
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