When will record-breaking USWNT star Naomi Girma make Chelsea debut? Update on first $1 million star as American arrives in England nursing injury

Naomi Girma has become the first $1 million (£800,000) player in women’s football, but an injury could delay the USWNT star’s debut for Chelsea.

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• Defender has shattered transfer record
• Looking forward to WSL challenge
• Nursing a knock at present

• Table of Contents

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  United States international Girma has rewritten the history books and smashed transfer records in securing a transfer from the San Diego Wave to WSL title holders Chelsea. She has been billed as the best defender in world football by international coach, and ex-Blues boss, Emma Hayes.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Girma is eager to get going, while Chelsea are understandably keen to get a big-money asset on the pitch, but the 24-year-old has arrived in England nursing a knock. As a result, no unnecessary risks will be taken on her fitness.

• WHAT SONIA BOMPASTOR SAID

  Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor has told when asked when Girma could make her competitive bow: “We don't exactly know yet just because she was in the off-season in the US and has a big nodule in her calf. We'll be working with her and making sure she will be fit to play with us when she can.”

• DID YOU KNOW?

  California native Girma has said of taking on a new challenge outside of her homeland: “I'm so happy and really excited to be here. It doesn't feel real. There are a lot of things about Chelsea that made me want to come here – the culture, the winning mentality, staff and players. It's a top environment to learn and grow in. Right now, that's what I'm looking to do.”