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I’ve always thought about playing overseas at some point in my career.” Admit it, these words from Trinity Rodman almost gave you a shock, didn’t they? Well, you certainly aren’t alone, with the entire NWSL fanbase going berserk over the possibility of losing the USWNT superstar to European counterparts. While one would imagine seeing Washington Spirit do everything in their power to retain the face of their team, owner Michele Kang has rather something else in her mind!

Wait, it’s not like the renowned American businesswoman isn’t keen to hold the talented winger in Washington, D.C. In fact, to quote her own words, “We’re going to do everything we can to keep her here in DC.” On top of that, the 65-year-old billionaire even underscored the importance of the 22-year-old forward being a crucial part of the Spirits’ success, but also called her a crucial chess piece for the entire NWSL and the US Women’s National Team.

Yet, Kang understands that Rodman expressing her desire to play abroad, even saying she’d “kick” herself if she didn’t do it before retiring, isn’t a bad idea to support. This surprising revelation was made by Kang during her latest exclusive interview with revered journalist Jeff Kassouf for ESPN FC’s Futbol W segment. “Ultimately, not just Trinity, in my opinion, I think it’s not a bad thing for players to experience different leagues,” began Michele.

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Highlighting the importance of global exposure, Kang pointed out how European players often come to experience the NWSL, and likewise, NWSL players should explore opportunities in Europe. “I think it’s from a personal player development perspective experiencing different leagues and different kinds of styles—all that is actually a positive thing. So at some point, I think that’s probably what she said, I guess,” she said.

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Simply put, consider it a time-bound condition, where the Newport Beach native would be allowed to leave for a European challenge when the moment is right. So it’s safe to say that Dennis Rodman’s daughter would stay put in NWSL for the time being. “For now, we want to keep her here… we’ll do everything we can,” again reiterating her desire to keep hold of Rodman in the States.

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Michele Kang has offered such a solution, as she has previously echoed a similar sentiment. However, her comments have sparked both support and discontent. For instance, Megan Rapinoe once openly stated, “If I were Michele Kang, I would do what I always do… get that checkbook out and just keep her (Trinity Rodman) exactly where she is.”

What’s your perspective on:

Trinity Rodman overseas—Is it a loss for NWSL or a win for her career growth?

Have an interesting take?

The former USWNT forward urged the Lyon and London City Lionesses owner to offer a lucrative contract to their best player. But it’s not like Kang will give in entirely to the European side; she has a unique proposal for them as well!

Trinity Rodman can go to Europe—but on one condition!

Michele Kang is ready to send Trinity Rodman on a European voyage, as long as star players from there will also take up the initiative of exploring the National Women’s Soccer League. “The European players should actually go at some point to experience the American football or different football. The same thing with the American football players as well,” said the generous philanthropist and investor during an interview with The Athletic.

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Kang is a strong believer in players getting as much unique experience as possible. Coincidentally, this is exactly what former USWNT players Sam Mewis and Becky Sauerbrunn once echoed. Both backed Trinity Rodman’s desire to play overseas. “We will have to deal with it when Trinity decides it’s the right time for her,” Sauerbrunn highlighted earlier on The Women’s Game podcast that exploring foreign leagues is a common aspiration for most players. She also pointed out that for the young player, the decision is more about gaining experience than chasing financial gain.

Then again, only time will tell when Trinity Rodman will leave the NWSL for an overseas stint. What do you think? Is the player exchange between NWSL and WSL a good thing? Sound off in the thoughts.

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"Trinity Rodman overseas—Is it a loss for NWSL or a win for her career growth?"

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