Fort Lauderdale United sign Lily Nabet on loan from Angel City FC | OneFootball

Fort Lauderdale United has announced the loan signing of Lily Nabet for the 2025/26 Gainbridge Super League season.

A native of Tarzana, California, and a first-generation Persian-American, Nabet began her footballing journey playing youth football for Real So Cal. The midfielder then joined Duke University. Within her first season for the Duke Blue Devils, she featured 20 times and registered four assists.

In over five years with the team, Nabet was a prominent figure and made 55 starts in 86 appearances. Alongside this, she helped lead Duke, as the co-captain, to the NCAA Tournament each season.

Nabet’s professional career began when Angel City selected her in the third round of the draft in 2022. She was the 36th pick overall. This move created history, as the 25-year-old was the first Persian-American to play professional football in the United States. Her club debut came in June 2022 against the Portland Thorns, and her first start came a month later, also against the Thorns.

Since joining Angel City, Nabet has made 15 starts for the club, but has featured in 37 NWSL matches. Despite signing a new contract with the club in January 2024, minutes have been hard to come by. In fact, she has only played once this season, entering a recent match against Gotham in stoppage time.

Now joining Fort Lauderdale United, Nabet brings not only top-flight experience but also the adaptability to influence matches in multiple roles. Known for her ability to keep possession and link play, she has a 78.5 percent pass completion rate whilst driving the Angel City midfield. Her arrival strengthens the squad as the club aims to push for a postseason return.

“She’s the perfect fit for the culture we’re building”

Speaking on the move, assistant head coach Ali Rogers said, “We’re excited to welcome Lily to Fort Lauderdale United FC from Angel City. As a midfielder, Lily fits seamlessly into our game model. She is composed and intelligent on the ball, with excellent vision and comfort in possession. Just as importantly, her competitive mentality and work ethic align perfectly with our team culture.”

General Manager Aly Hassan added, “We’re excited to welcome Lily to Fort Lauderdale United. She brings experience from one of the top clubs in the NWSL, along with the adaptability to influence games in multiple roles across the midfield. She’s a perfect fit for the culture we’re building.”

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