In a groundbreaking move, Zambia’s forward, Racheal Kundananji, has etched her name in history as the most expensive player in the realm of women’s football. The 23-year-old has secured a momentous transfer to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) expansion team, Bay FC, based in the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area.
The US club finalized the signing of Kundananji from Spanish outfit Madrid CFF, making headlines with a staggering transfer fee of $788,000. This historic deal not only marks Bay FC’s entry into the NWSL as its 14th team but also sets a new benchmark for the highest transfer fee ever paid for a female footballer.
Scheduled to kick off their inaugural season in the NWSL on March 16, Bay FC is gearing up to make a significant impact with Kundananji leading their attacking lineup. The four-year contract, with an option for a fifth year, solidifies the Zambian forward’s commitment to the club.
Kundananji’s remarkable journey includes representing Zambia in the Women’s World Cup last year, where she showcased her prowess with 10 goals in 18 appearances for the national team. Her prolific scoring ability was further evident during her tenure with Madrid CFF, where she netted an impressive 33 goals in 43 Liga F games since joining in 2022.
Bay FC’s general manager, Lucy Rushton, expressed enthusiasm about Kundananji’s arrival, citing her composure in front of goal and natural scoring instincts. Rushton believes that Kundananji’s skill set will complement the team’s exciting attacking talent.
This historic transfer not only sets a new standard in the women’s football landscape but also marks the first time an African player, regardless of gender, has broken a world transfer record. Kundananji’s move follows closely on the heels of Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala, a six-time African Footballer of the Year, signing with Bay FC’s league rival Barcelona just two weeks prior.
Madrid CFF acknowledged Kundananji’s growth and impact during her tenure, emphasizing their commitment to nurturing and attracting top talent. However, the player’s arrival at Bay FC is still pending approval of her visa and international transfer certificate.
This landmark transfer surpasses the reported fee of nearly $500,000 that Chelsea paid last month to Spanish club Levante for Maya Ramirez, underlining the increasing recognition and investment in the global women’s football arena.
