The Washington Spirit agreed to a new contract with midfielder Deborah Abiodun that runs through 2028 and includes a mutual option for 2029. Abiodun joined the Spirit before the 2025 season, spent the first half of that year away on loan and returned to Washington in August 2025.
Abiodun has appeared in 21 matches for the Washington Spirit, recording one goal and one assist. The Nigerian national team midfielder will remain with the National Women’s Soccer League club under the new agreement.
Deborah Abiodun Renews Commitment to Washington Spirit
“The Spirit has become my home over the past year and I’m thrilled to renew my commitment to DC,” said Abiodun. “I have seen a lot of growth in my game with this club and I look forward to continuing to contribute to its success over the next three seasons.”
After signing with Washington before the 2025 season, Abiodun spent the first half of the year away on loan as she began her professional career. The Spirit recalled her in August 2025, and she became part of the club’s run to the NWSL Championship.
“Deb brings a very unique skillset to our midfield,” said Sporting Director James Hocken. “She brings an incredible energy off the ball and is a calming influence on it. Her development since starting on our loan pathway has been a joy to watch and we are excited to keep her in the District for the foreseeable future.”
Abiodun’s International and College Background
Abiodun is from Oyo in southwestern Nigeria and made her Nigerian senior team debut in September 2022. She competed with Nigeria at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Olympic Games before helping the country win the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Before turning professional, Abiodun played two seasons of college soccer at Pitt. She recorded 10 goals and three assists in 34 appearances and earned All-ACC recognition in both seasons.
In 2023, Abiodun received All-ACC Freshman Team and All-ACC Third Team honors. She earned Second Team All-ACC recognition in 2024.
Washington Spirit to Host Chicago Stars FC at Audi Field
The Washington Spirit is scheduled to host Chicago Stars FC at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., on Sunday, November 1, at 5 p.m. EDT. The match is scheduled as the Spirit’s annual Fan Appreciation Night.
The event also is scheduled to feature a Trinity Rodman-designed hat giveaway.
Maryland Sports Blog Take
The new agreement keeps Deborah Abiodun with the Washington Spirit through 2028 and gives the club a mutual option for 2029. Her 21 appearances, international experience with Nigeria and two seasons at Pitt provide the verified context surrounding the contract announcement.
Source: Original report
