Experienced midfielder joins the Black Cats on a two-year contract
Sunderland AFC Women have completed the signing of Belgium international Kassandra Missipo, with the midfielder joining the club on a two-year contract until summer 2028.
The 28-year-old arrives at the Stadium of Light with extensive experience at both domestic and international level, having represented Belgium’s senior team since making her debut in 2016.
Extensive International Experience
Missipo has earned more than 60 caps for the Belgium national team, establishing herself as an experienced member of the Red Flames squad.
She was part of the Belgium side that reached the quarter-finals of UEFA Women’s EURO 2022, while she also played an important role in the team’s qualification for EURO 2025.
Missipo featured in both legs of Belgium’s play-off final against Ukraine as the Red Flames secured their place at the tournament.
Her international experience gives Sunderland a player who has competed at some of the biggest stages in European women’s football.
European Club Experience
At club level, Missipo has enjoyed success in both Belgium and Switzerland and has also experienced football in Italy’s Serie A with Sassuolo.
One of the highlights of her domestic career came during her time with Gent, where she was named the Belgian Super League’s best player in 2019.
Her career across several European leagues means she arrives at Sunderland with considerable experience of different footballing environments and tactical styles.
Missipo: “I Believe It Is the Right Move for Me”
Speaking after completing her move, Missipo expressed her pride at joining Sunderland and explained why she believes the transfer is the right next step in her career.
“I am very proud to be here and to sign for Sunderland. I have played in Switzerland and Italy, and those experiences were important steps in my career. Now, this step is about passion, quality and continuing to move in the right direction.”
She added that she was excited to work with her new teammates and looked forward to the season ahead.
Sunderland’s View
Sunderland Sporting Director Rehanne Skinner highlighted the midfielder’s experience and versatility.
Skinner said Missipo’s time with the Belgian national team and in Serie A “speaks for itself”, while praising the quality, intelligence and versatility she can bring to Sunderland’s midfield.
She also highlighted Missipo’s character and winning mentality as important qualities as Sunderland continue to raise the standards within their squad.
Head Coach Mel Reay was equally positive about the signing, describing Missipo as an excellent addition to the midfield.
Reay highlighted her aggression, quality on the ball and ability to influence games, while also pointing to the experience she has gained across Europe.
Transfer Details
- Player: Kassandra Missipo
- Age: 28
- Nationality: Belgium 🇧🇪
- Position: Midfielder
- Previous club: Sassuolo / previous European experience
- New club: Sunderland AFC Women
- Contract: Until summer 2028
- International caps: 60+
- Belgium debut: 2016
- EURO 2022: Quarter-finalist
- Status: Official
What Kassandra Missipo Brings to Sunderland
Sunderland are adding considerably more than experience with the arrival of Missipo.
The midfielder has competed internationally for Belgium for almost a decade and has played across several European leagues, giving her an understanding of different styles of football.
Her aggression, technical quality and versatility should provide Sunderland with another strong option in midfield, while her experience of playing at major international tournaments could prove particularly valuable to the squad.
The fact that Missipo was previously recognised as the Belgian Super League’s best player in 2019 also demonstrates the level she has reached during her career.
Transfer Tribune Verdict
This looks like an excellent signing for Sunderland.
Missipo brings international pedigree, European club experience and leadership to the Black Cats, while the two-year contract gives the club an experienced midfielder to build around through 2028.
Her ability to play with intensity while also contributing quality on the ball could make her an important player for Sunderland this season.
With more than 60 international caps and experience at EURO 2022, Missipo arrives with the kind of pedigree that can help raise the overall quality and standards of the squad.
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