Nigerian midfielder Deborah Abiodun is set to spend the remainder of the 2025 calendar year on loan at USL Super League side Dallas Trinity FC, following an agreement with Washington Spirit.
The move was confirmed over the weekend by both American clubs, just weeks after Abiodun signed her first professional contract with the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team.
Abiodun, 21, joined Washington Spirit in January 2025 on a three-year deal. However, as part of the club’s development strategy, she will gain further experience with Dallas Trinity FC before returning to Washington ahead of the 2026 season. The loan deal also includes an undisclosed fee paid by the Texas-based club.
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The talented midfielder will be joining her Washington Spirit teammate, Tamara Bolt, at Dallas Trinity FC for the season. Spirit President of Soccer Operations, Mark Krikorian, emphasized the importance of the loan move, stating,
“Deborah and Tamara’s loans are part of our development plans as they embark on their U.S. professional careers. They will gain invaluable experience in Dallas this year, and we look forward to their return to the Spirit in the future.”
Abiodun made a name for herself at the University of Pittsburgh, where she was a two-time All-ACC selection. She played a pivotal role in the university’s success, scoring 10 goals and providing three assists in 34 appearances.
Super Falcons midfielder while playing in the USL last season
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Her performances earned her recognition at the international level, representing Nigeria at major tournaments, including the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Before moving to the United States, Abiodun played for Rivers Angels in Nigeria, where she developed under the guidance of coaches like Randy Waldrum, who also coached Nigeria’s Super Falcons.
The loan spell at Dallas Trinity FC is expected to provide Abiodun with regular playing time and help her adapt to the professional game in the U.S. before she returns to the NWSL next season.
Source: The Athletic NG
