San Jose is about to get a heavy dose of Italian firepower. Bay FC announced today that Italy captain Cristiana Girelli is joining the NWSL club on loan from Juventus on a short-term deal that runs through August. The 35-year-old striker is expected to link up with her new teammates after Italy’s World Cup qualifying fixtures in early March, with the move still subject to visa approval and international transfer clearance. If everything goes through, Bay fans can expect a proven goalscorer in town right as the season gets rolling.
Juventus Makes It Official
Juventus confirmed the deal in a club announcement, stating that Girelli has extended her contract and will head to the United States on loan through August 2026. According to Juventus, the club is treating the agreement as a special professional opportunity and highlighted Girelli’s leadership on and off the pitch. The team also noted that this will be her first club experience outside Italy.
A Proven Scorer
Girelli arrives with the kind of numbers that make defenders nervous: roughly 250 goals in about 400 club appearances and a Serie A Golden Boot campaign that saw her score 19 times in 24 matches. As reported by Sports Illustrated, she was also named league MVP for her most recent season and currently wears the captain’s armband for the Italian national team. For Bay FC, that resume means an instant focal point up front and a seasoned mentor for the club’s younger forwards.
What Bay FC Is Betting On
Bay FC has been busy this off-season and is clearly banking on Girelli’s finishing touch to help push the club back into playoff contention. The team’s schedule lists a home opener at PayPal Park on March 14, an early chance for local supporters to check out any new arrivals in person, according to Bay FC. The club has been promoting mini-plan ticket packages and matchday experiences as it gears up for the new campaign.
Timeline and Next Steps
Girelli is expected to travel to the Bay Area after Italy’s qualifying matches scheduled for March 3 and March 7, although Bay FC and Juventus have both noted that the move hinges on U.S. work visa processing and international transfer clearance. "We're delighted to welcome Cristiana to Bay FC," head coach Emma Coates said, emphasizing the striker’s experience and leadership qualities. If the paperwork comes through on time, Girelli could be available for Bay’s early-season games at PayPal Park, giving the club a major veteran boost up front, as reported by The Athletic.