France international Delphine Cascarino has joined London City Lionesses. She signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with the Women’s Super League (WSL) club. This move follows her departure from NWSL side San Diego Wave FC, made official on Monday. The 28-year-old forward is back in English football, ready to boost London City’s debut WSL season.
Cascarino’s Swift European Return
The move for Cascarino happened quickly. She mutually parted ways with San Diego Wave FC on Sunday. Her former club explained she wanted to be closer to home. London City Lionesses acted fast. They secured her signature on a deal running through the end of the 2028-29 season.
She spent the 2024 and 2025 NWSL seasons with the Wave. Cascarino played 34 matches, scoring seven goals and adding nine assists. That’s a solid output from her time in the US. Her departure was amicable, with no conflicts reported, as BBC Sport detailed.
A Champion’s Mentality Arrives
Cascarino brings significant winning experience to London City. She spent nearly a decade with Olympique Lyonnais Féminin, OL Lyonnes. There, she won nine French league titles and six Women’s Champions League crowns. She appeared in 204 games for Lyon, scoring 31 goals. That kind of background helps any team, especially one finding its feet in the top flight.
She’s also a regular for the France national team, with 86 caps for Les Bleues. Cascarino participated in major tournaments like the 2019 World Cup, 2024 Paris Olympics, and Euro 2022 and 2025. That means she knows high-pressure games. London City needs that kind of player.
London City Lionesses head coach Eder Maestre spoke about his excitement. “I’m so excited with this signing,” Maestre told reporters. He also said, “I think she is one of the most exciting forwards I have seen.” Maestre highlighted her “warrior-like and winning mentality.” He expects her to help the team reach its goals.
Cascarino herself shared her ambitions. She stated, “England—for men and women—is the country of football. It’s always been a goal of mine to play in this league.” And she’s aiming for trophies here. “I want to play in the Champions League here at London City and win many trophies,” she said via the club’s statement. Her goals are clear.
Immediate Impact and Upcoming Fixtures
London City Lionesses holds a unique position. They’re the only independent women’s club in the WSL, not backed by a men’s team. This aspect excites Cascarino. She’s ready to contribute right away, saying she’s “excited to start the second part of the season.”
The team currently sits seventh in the WSL table. They have 16 points from 12 matches in this 2025-26 season. And this is their first season in the WSL. So there’s plenty of room to climb, which is a good start for a new team. Her pace and finishing will add attacking depth.
Her debut could happen very soon. The FA Cup fifth round is scheduled for February 21-22, 2026. London City will face Tottenham Hotspur. That’s a big match, a chance for Cascarino to make an immediate impact. No injury concerns have been reported, so she’s ready to play.
WSL’s Growing Appeal and Future Implications
This transfer shows a broader trend in women’s football. Mid-season moves across leagues are becoming more common. Global investment is growing, attracting top talent. Cascarino, a proven scorer, is a marquee addition. And it’s for an ambitious, independent club like London City.
Her dual French and English nationality is an interesting point. But she has 86 caps for France, that’s her commitment. For the French national team, playing in the WSL keeps her in top form for upcoming internationals, including potential 2027 World Cup qualifiers. Yahoo Sports noted her extensive international career.
London City Lionesses has connections to the OL Group, similar to Lyon’s ownership. This helps them attract high-caliber players. Cascarino’s signing is a calculated boost for them. It fulfills her long-held ambition to play in England. And it closes her US chapter on positive terms. That “warrior-like” mentality Maestre talked about could be key to their success, Fotmob highlighted. It’s a big statement signing for the club.
Sagnik Banerjee 
Govind Singh