Why Marta’s new deal with Orlando Pride is the biggest story in the NWSL right now | OneFootball

Orlando Pride announced, through an official press release, the renovation of Marta's contract for two more seasons. In this way, the most important player ever to step into women's soccer will keep her relationship with the club until 2026. It is not just a strategic move but also represents the bond consolidated over time by the player with the fans and with the city of Orlando.

Since her arrival in 2017, Marta has been an indispensable figure in Pride. The numbers on the pitch mean something, but on the field, it has much to say: 128 games played, 42 goals scored, and 19 assists. Still, the Brazilian contribution is much more about experience, stability, and competitive spirit that have grown the club to another level.

Marta had a leading role in securing Pride's first NWSL title during the 2024 season, with 11 goals into the net and game-changing moments throughout the playoffs. She was included in the NWSL Best XI and FIFPRO Women's World XI for her performances.

The queen, who has always proudly worn the number 10 jersey, highlighted that reaching 10 seasons with the club will be a personal milestone: “Reaching this number is special for me because I’ve worn the number 10 for most of my career. I’m excited to continue with Pride and help the team achieve even more,” she said.

Impact beyond the field

Marta's renewal also strengthens how much she has become a part of Orlando Pride's identity. She is much more than a player; she is a reference for fans, teammates, and even opponents.

Haley Carter, Pride's vice president of soccer operations, emphasized how special the athlete is: "Marta's impact goes far beyond the field. Her skill as a player is unquestioned, but what truly sets her apart is the way she leads and inspires others."

The Brazilian has always been eager to show her affinity with the Orlando community, a city that welcomed women's soccer and gave the right recognition that it deserves. "I love living here, I love the community, and I love how people value Pride soccer. I can't wait for the next season to start," said Marta.

NWSL's role in the current scene

The NWSL has been cemented as one of the most competitive leagues for women's soccer on the planet. Marta's stay with Pride strengthens such a position and shows how the league attracts and retains great talent.

For Orlando Pride, the continuation of Marta for two more seasons means the club is committed to continuing this growth. After the successful performances of the 2024 season, maintaining the core of such a roster and reinforcing the group will be crucial in sustaining this performance and pursuing new titles.

A career filled with achievements

There's no talking about Marta without going back to those historic performances. She has not only redefined the meaning of high-level athlete but also torn down barriers during her career. She is the all-time top scorer in the history of the FIFA Women's World Cup, the only player to have scored in five successive editions of the competition, and the only player, male or female, to win six FIFA Player of the Year awards.

In 2024, she again proved that there was still so much she could do: she won the silver medal in the Paris Olympics with the Brazilian national team, further expanding her legacy internationally.