North Carolina Courage have completed the signing of Brazilian forward Bia Gomes from Zenit.
The 23-year-old attacker has signed a contract through the 2027 season, with North Carolina Courage holding an option for 2028.
The move sees Gomes continue her international career after spending the last two seasons with Zenit in Russia.
Bia Gomes Joins North Carolina Courage
Gomes arrives in the NWSL with experience of playing football in several different countries.
The Brazilian forward spent the last two seasons with Zenit, having previously represented Internacional in Brazil and Changchun Dazhong in China.
Her move to North Carolina represents another important step in an increasingly international career and gives the Courage another attacking option.
Experience in Brazil, China and Russia
Before moving to Russia, Gomes developed her career in Brazil with Internacional before making the move to China to play for Changchun Dazhong.
She then spent the last two seasons with Zenit, gaining experience of European football.
That international experience should help Gomes adapt to the demands of a new league and a different footballing environment in the United States.
South American U-20 Champion
Gomes has also represented Brazil at youth international level.
One of the highlights of her international career came in 2022, when she helped Brazil win the South American U-20 Championship.
That success provided Gomes with valuable international tournament experience early in her career and remains an important achievement on her CV.
Gomes Excited by New Challenge
Gomes expressed her excitement after completing her move to North Carolina Courage.
The Brazilian believes the transfer represents an important step in her career and is looking forward to getting onto the pitch with her new teammates.
“I’m very happy to join North Carolina Courage. This is a big step in my career. I can’t wait to take the field with my new teammates and show Courage fans what I can do,” Gomes said.
Contract Through 2027
Gomes has signed through 2027, with an option for the 2028 season.
The agreement gives North Carolina Courage the opportunity to retain the Brazilian forward beyond the initial contract period if her time in the NWSL proves successful.
At 23, Gomes also fits the profile of a player who can continue developing while already possessing considerable experience from playing abroad.
Transfer Tribune Verdict
Bia Gomes is an intriguing addition for North Carolina Courage.
The Brazilian forward has already experienced football in Brazil, China and Russia, giving her a varied background despite being just 23.
Her South American U-20 Championship success with Brazil also demonstrates her experience on the international stage.
The contract through 2027, with an option for 2028, gives North Carolina the opportunity to develop Gomes over the longer term and potentially make her an important part of their attacking options.
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