It's been quite the summer for Esme Morgan. Fresh off winning the 2025 UEFA Women's Euro with England, Morgan slotted right back into the defensive line for the Washington Spirit. She played like a champion, being flexible in the Spirit's fluctuating three-back setup, and was a steady presence when things were tricky in the final third.

Washington’s star is back after missing nearly four months. She wasted no time, scoring in stoppage time for a 2-1 win over the Portland Thorns at Audi Field.

Even beyond the transfer funds exchanged, which set a new NWSL record, Ally Sentnor’s move to the Kansas City Current from Utah is a bona fide blockbuster. The 21-year-old is among the brightest rising stars on the USWNT, able to score audacious goals and help teams move upfield with determination.