Here’s the latest update from the ongoing FIFA World Cup as of 2026-08-03 20:38:00.
Bay FC has confirmed the signing of United States winger Jenna Nighswonger from Arsenal in a deal estimated at around $200,000, according to multiple sources. This move marks Nighswonger’s return to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), where she previously celebrated a championship and gained prominence with the USWNT.
Nighswonger has made 20 appearances for the United States national team, scoring two goals. She was part of the squad that secured the gold medal at the 2024 Olympics. After a difficult tenure in England, she spent the early part of 2026 on loan at Aston Villa, participating in eight league matches for the club.
Aston Villa had the opportunity to make Nighswonger’s loan permanent but opted against it, as confirmed by a source. Previously, Gotham FC sold her to Arsenal in January 2025 for about $100,000.
During her time at Arsenal, Nighswonger played in only five league matches. She was part of the squad that clinched the UEFA Women’s Champions League title in 2025, though she did not feature in the tournament.
Nighswonger was drafted by Gotham FC in the 2023 NWSL Draft as the No. 4 overall pick. She played 20 matches that regular season and was pivotal in all three playoff games, helping Gotham win its first NWSL Championship. Her stellar performance earned her the NWSL Rookie of the Year award.
After receiving her first call-up to the USWNT in fall 2023, Nighswonger debuted in December of that year. She made a strong impression on both interim coach Twila Kilgore and incoming head coach Emma Hayes, participating in five of the six games during the Olympic gold medal run. Her most recent appearance for the national team was in February 2025.
Nighswonger played as a forward during her college years at Florida State, winning a national championship in 2021 and being a finalist for the Hermann Trophy in 2022.
Currently, Bay FC holds a record of 5-3-9 (W-D-L) with 18 points, ranking 14th among 16 teams in the NWSL. Under first-year head coach Emma Coates, the team is in a rebuilding phase.
In the offseason, they also brought in US midfielder Claire Hutton and attacking midfielder Kennedy Fuller from Angel City FC, along with Argentine forward Agostina Holzheier. Nighswonger is expected to compete for a full-back role as Bay FC aims to boost their performance on both ends.
FAQs
What team did Jenna Nighswonger join?
Jenna Nighswonger signed with Bay FC from Arsenal.
What major event is she part of?
Nighswonger was part of the USWNT that won gold at the 2024 Olympics.
Key Facts
- Category:
- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-08-03 20:38:00
Read more on the FIFA World Cup 2026 right here as the tournament continues.
Tags: #Bay #agree #sign #USWNT #winger #Jenna #Nighswonger #Arsenal #sources
Tags: #Bay #agree #sign #USWNT #winger #Jenna #Nighswonger #Arsenal #sources
