If trendsetting were an art, Cristiano Ronaldo would be its Picasso. Beyond being the most-followed person on social media or flaunting a personality as iconic as his game, it’s his move to Al Nassr that truly proves the point. Since his unexpected arrival in the Middle East, the Portuguese superstar has sparked a footballing carnival, with big names like Neymar Jr., Karim Benzema, and many others trailing in his path. But who could have imagined his influence would spill over into the women’s game too, with his own country’s star, Jessica Silva, now following in his footsteps by surprisingly ditching the NWSL.

Weren’t expecting this one, were you? Well, it turns out Saudi Arabia’s riches are eager to make a mark in the women’s game too, aiming to rival the appeal of America’s NWSL and top European leagues like the WSL. After parting ways with Gotham FC back in June, Silva had been a free agent for quite some time, until now, as she has finally found a new home — at none other than Al Hilal. The news broke after both the player and the club announced the beginning of a new chapter on their respective social media accounts, with multiple posts.

The talented forward has signed a year-long deal with the Blue Waves as both sides expressed their excitement about this development. “I’m very happy to be here at Al Hilal. Let’s go!” said Silva. “It’s time to embrace a new challenge. A step forward that represents a huge professional opportunity, and also a chance to show that my values travel with me, wherever I go,” she wrote in an Instagram post.

It was just last year that Silva joined Gotham FC, and even though her stint lasted only a single season, it was a fruitful one, capped by winning the Concacaf W Champions Cup. Before her time in the NWSL, Silva’s career took her across some of Europe’s top clubs. She began her journey at Clube de Albergaria before moving briefly to Linköpings FC, then returned to Albergaria to continue her development.

Over the years, she represented Braga, Levante, and later had spells with Olympique Lyonnais and even Gotham rivals Kansas City Current for the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Her most recent European chapter came with Benfica, where she showcased her attacking flair before returning to the NWSL and playing for the Bats. No wonder, as the season ended, she finally decided to bid her farewell.

“I had the privilege of playing alongside some of the best players in the world and amazing teammates…thank you for letting me be myself, for allowing me to nurture my career in a new place, with freedom, trust, and space to grow. I always tried to bring good energy, and I know I received so much back,” she wrote in her goodbye message dedicated to her ardent supporters.

Though there was a chance for Jessica Silva to stay at Gotham and extend her contract, she herself decided to leave. But why? Well, the reason shouldn’t be a surprise for you!

Jessica Silva ditching NWSL for Saudi Arabia is not surprising at all!

Given her limited minutes on the field, Jessica Silva’s departure was no less than a writing on the wall. On a short-term deal, she was always among the players who wanted to move on this summer — and that’s exactly what happened. She could have stayed to regain rhythm after her injury layoff, which would have added valuable depth to Gotham FC’s roster. Had she returned to peak fitness, fans might have seen her earn more starts.

Not to mention, the summer had already been tough on the 27-year-old. Called up by the Portuguese Women’s National Team for the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euros, Silva and her teammates couldn’t even make it out of the group stage, finishing bottom with just a single point after drawing against Spain, Belgium, and Italy. So it’s only fitting that Jéssica Silva sought a fresh start to find some happiness of her own.

And what better way than joining a team certain to give her opportunities? Considering the eye-watering pay packets we’ve seen on the men’s side from Saudi clubs, it’s fair to assume a lucrative deal played its part in luring her in as well. Whether this move is an upgrade or a step down compared to the NWSL — well, that’s for you to decide. Let us know your thoughts in the comments.