Spirit sign F Sofia Cantore, first Italian in NWSL history

The Washington Spirit signed forward Sofia Cantore on Tuesday, making her the first Italian player in NWSL history.

Cantore arrives via transfer from Italy's Juventus FC and is signed to a three-year deal with a 2028 team option.

Cantore, 25, is eligible to join the Spirit on July 1 when the FIFA summer transfer window opens. She will occupy an international roster slot.

"Sofia is an important signing for this Spirit team as we continue to build up our roster to compete for trophies," head coach Adrian Gonzalez said. "Her extensive experience in the Italian leagues and exceptional talent in the attacking third will help add a new layer for the Spirit moving forward."

The first Italian NWSL player is ready to make an impact!

Forza Spirit! ???? pic.twitter.com/77pXVmL4uh

— Washington Spirit (@WashSpirit) June 17, 2025

Cantore made her professional debut with Italy's Fiammamonza in 2015 before moving to Juventus in 2017. She has spent time on loans with Hellas Verona (2019-20), Florentia (2020-21) and Sassuolo (2021-22), racking up 40 goals and 120 assists across 120 appearances.

"I'm very proud to join this important club and grateful for their trust in my abilities," Cantore said. "I'm excited to start this new chapter of my career as the first Italian player in the NWSL and can't wait to work every day with coach Adrian Gonzalez and my new teammates. And of course, I'm thrilled to challenge myself in this great league!"

Internationally, Cantore has contributed five goals in 37 matches with the Italian national team since making her senior debut in 2020.

--Field Level Media