Delphine Cascarino, the French international forward, has completed a move to London City Lionesses, signing a three-and-a-half-year contract after leaving the San Diego Wave in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The 28-year-old winger returns closer to home, aiming to make an impact in the Women’s Super League (WSL) and help London City compete for top honours.
Delphine Cascarino helped France defeat eventual champions England in the group stage at Euro 2025. Photo credit: Getty Images.

Cascarino’s Career Journey

Cascarino’s football journey began at Lyon, where she spent her entire senior career until 2024. During her time at Lyon, she became one of the most decorated players in women’s football history:

• 6 UEFA Women’s Champions League titles
• 9 French Division 1 Féminine league titles

In 2024, Cascarino made the move to the United States, joining San Diego Wave, but decided to terminate her contract on Sunday to return closer to Europe and pursue her ambitions in England.

International Experience

Cascarino has been a key figure for France, earning 86 caps to date. She played pivotal roles in recent major tournaments:

• Paris 2024 Olympics – helped France reach the quarter-finals
• Euro 2025 – reached the last eight, providing assists in group stage wins over England and the Netherlands

Her experience on the international stage, combined with her proven winning mentality, makes her a vital addition to the WSL newcomers.

Cascarino’s Ambition in England

Speaking about her move, Cascarino said:

“England – for men and women – is the country of football. It’s always been a goal of mine to play in this league. I want to play in the Champions League here at London City and win many trophies.”

Her words underline her determination to not only perform in the domestic league but also to help London City make their mark in European competitions in the future.

London City Lionesses’ Vision

London City Lionesses, competing in the WSL for the first time this season, are currently seventh in the table. Head coach Eder Maestre hailed the signing as a major statement of intent:

“I’m so excited with this signing. I really think she is one of the most exciting forwards I have seen. She is a dribbler who can take on players in one-vs-one situations, and she will be very powerful on the wing. Everybody can see how good she is when she plays, and I want that warrior-like and winning mentality off the pitch too, to help us reach our goals. She has won six Champions Leagues, so she has the ambitions and the knowhow to win, on and off the pitch.”

Maestre’s comments highlight not only Cascarino’s technical ability but also her leadership qualities, which could be pivotal in helping a newly promoted team stabilize in the WSL and aim higher in the league standings.

What This Means for the WSL

Cascarino’s arrival strengthens the league’s growing reputation as one of the most competitive in women’s football, attracting world-class talent from across Europe and beyond. London City’s investment in a player of her calibre signals their ambition to compete at the top level and eventually challenge established WSL powerhouses such as Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United.