The Washington Spirit has bolstered its roster by signing Nigerian forward Gift Monday to a three-year contract that includes a team option for 2028. The agreement, finalized on March 25, 2025, marks an exciting new chapter for both the player and the club as they aim for continued success in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
Monday, whose transfer fee has not been disclosed, joins the Spirit from Spain’s UD Tenerife, where she became a prominent figure during her two and a half years with the team. During her time in Tenerife, she played over 65 matches, showcasing her ability by contributing to 26 goals throughout nearly 4,500 minutes of action on the pitch. Her performance in the Liga F has certainly caught the attention of coaches and fans alike.
“Gift has unique qualities as a forward and will add a new layer to our attacking third,” said Spirit head coach Jonathan Giráldez. “We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team in the near future.” This addition comes on the heels of the Spirit winning the NWSL Challenge Cup earlier in March 2025 against the Orlando Pride, solidifying the club’s reputation for excellence.
The motivation for Monday’s transition from Spain to Washington is clear. She has expressed enthusiasm about joining the Spirit, stating, “I am excited to join the Washington Spirit family as I have long wanted to play for the club. I can’t wait to start living the dream with the Spirit!” Her eagerness reflects not only her personal ambitions but also the growing prominence of the Spirit within the NWSL.
Before transferring to UD Tenerife in 2022, Monday played for FC Robo and COD United Amazons in Nigeria. Her journey has been impressive, having made her senior debut for the Nigeria national team in 2019. Furthermore, she was selected for the 23-player roster for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, showcasing her international potential.
Gift Monday has passionately pursued her career in soccer, and during her stint with Tenerife, she emerged as the team's top scorer for the 2024/25 season, netting 12 goals and contributing three assists in 19 Liga F matches, along with two appearances in the Copa de la Reina. In total, she scored 22 goals while donning the Tenerife colors and was recognized as Liga F’s Best Player in February 2025, an accolade that further emphasizes her quality as a forward.
“She has become one of the family, always willing to help and give her all,” said UD Tenerife president Sergio Batista, extending warm wishes as she embarks on this new journey. “We only have good wishes for her and words of gratitude for her commitment to the club. The doors of our club remain open to her.”
This move is part of a broader trend within women's soccer, with more Nigerian players making their mark in the NWSL. Alongside Monday, notable names such as Asisat Oshoala (Bay FC), Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash), and Uchenna Kanu (Racing Louisville) have also made the leap to the American league, reflecting the increasing recognition of talent from the Nigerian women’s soccer scene.
Fans are buzzing with excitement about Monday joining the Spirit, particularly after the club set a new attendance record for its home opener last weekend at Audi Field. The Spirit is poised to have a strong season, and with the next home match scheduled against an undisclosed opponent on March 28, 2025, opportunities abound for supporters to witness the talent on display.
The Washington Spirit, recognized as a premier professional women’s soccer team, plays at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., and was founded on November 21, 2012. As an inaugural member of the NWSL, the club has become synonymous with competitive spirit and excellence and continues to attract some of the best players in the world.
For more details on upcoming matches or to join as a season ticket member, visit WashingtonSpirit.com and follow the team on social media. With the recruitment of Gift Monday and the team's recent successes, it’s a thrilling time to be a fan of the Washington Spirit.
