Portland Thorns FC has signed Dutch midfielder Nina Nijstad to a contract through 2029, pending her P-1 visa and international transfer clearance. The 23-year-old arrives from PSV after helping the Dutch club win its first league title and brings experience with the Netherlands senior national team.
Key Takeaways
- Portland Thorns signed Dutch midfielder Nina Nijstad through 2029.
- The transfer is subject to visa approval and international transfer clearance.
- Nijstad joins after three seasons with Dutch club PSV.
- She has represented the Netherlands at youth and senior international levels.
- Club officials described the midfielder as an important addition to the squad.
Portland Thorns Nina Nijstad became official after the National Women’s Soccer League club announced the signing of the Dutch midfielder to a multi-year contract running through 2029. The agreement remains subject to Nijstad receiving her P-1 visa and international transfer clearance before she becomes available for selection. The move adds another international player to Portland’s roster as the club continues preparing for the remainder of its competitive schedule.
The 23-year-old joins Portland after spending the past three seasons with PSV in the Netherlands. During her time with the club, she helped PSV secure its first Eredivisie league championship and contributed to the team’s second consecutive Eredivisie Cup title. The Thorns did not disclose the transfer fee involved in completing the move.
What Did the Portland Thorns Announce?
Portland confirmed that Nijstad has agreed to a contract through the 2029 season. Before she can officially appear in league competition, she must receive both a P-1 visa and international transfer clearance, which are standard requirements for international player transfers into the United States. The move follows the club’s efforts to strengthen its roster, including its decision to acquire an additional international roster spot for the 2026 season, as detailed in its international roster slot acquisition.
The signing expands the club’s midfield options while bringing another player with European club experience into the squad. Portland identified Nijstad after monitoring her performances over an extended period before deciding to complete the transfer.
The announcement also included comments from the player, who expressed her enthusiasm about joining the club and playing home matches at Providence Park. Nijstad said she was excited to begin the next stage of her career in Portland and looked forward to experiencing the support of the club’s fans.
Who Is Nina Nijstad?
Nina Nijstad is a Dutch midfielder who developed her professional career in the Netherlands before making the move to the National Women’s Soccer League. At 23 years old, she arrives in Portland after establishing herself as a regular contributor for PSV and earning opportunities with the Netherlands senior national team.
Career with PSV
Nijstad spent three seasons with PSV, where she played an important role during one of the club’s most successful periods. The team captured its first Eredivisie championship during her tenure, marking a milestone achievement in the club’s history.
She also helped PSV win a second consecutive Eredivisie Cup, adding another domestic trophy before her transfer to Portland. Her performances with the Dutch club attracted attention beyond the Netherlands and ultimately led to Portland securing her services on a long-term agreement.
Her move to the Thorns represents the next stage of her professional career after competing in one of Europe’s established women’s football competitions.
International Experience with the Netherlands
Nijstad has represented the Netherlands at both youth and senior international levels.
She was part of the Netherlands squad that reached the semifinals of the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, gaining experience in an international tournament against top youth national teams.
Her senior international debut came in 2024 during the Netherlands’ 15-0 victory over Indonesia. Across her first four senior appearances, she scored two goals, continuing her progression into the national team setup.
Her international experience adds another layer to her résumé as she joins one of the NWSL’s established clubs.
Why Did Portland Thorns Sign Nina Nijstad?
Portland officials identified Nijstad as a player capable of strengthening the team’s midfield while fitting into the club’s long-term plans.
Club president and general manager of soccer operations Jeff Agoos said Portland had monitored Nijstad over several months before completing the signing. He described her as an exciting young prospect with the ability to contribute effectively on both sides of the ball.
Agoos also said the club believes Nijstad has significant potential as she continues earning opportunities with the Netherlands senior national team. According to the club, Portland was pleased that she chose to continue her career with the Thorns.
The contract through 2029 provides long-term stability for both the player and the organization while adding another international signing to the roster. The signing also comes as women’s sports continue to generate economic activity across Oregon, a trend explored in coverage of women’s sports driving economic growth.
What Has the Club Said About the Signing?
Jeff Agoos said Portland’s scouting process focused on identifying players capable of contributing immediately while continuing to develop their game. He stated that the club had followed Nijstad for several months before deciding to complete the transfer.
According to Agoos, Nijstad’s ability to influence matches in both attacking and defensive phases made her an attractive addition to the squad. He also said the organization looks forward to integrating her into the team’s environment once all transfer requirements have been completed.
Nijstad also shared her reaction following the announcement through social media, saying she was excited to join Portland Thorns FC, wear the club’s badge and play at Providence Park.
Her comments reflected anticipation for the next chapter of her career as she prepares for her first experience playing professional football in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Nina Nijstad?
Nina Nijstad is a 23-year-old Dutch midfielder who joined Portland Thorns FC from PSV after representing the Netherlands at youth and senior international levels.
When can Nina Nijstad play for Portland Thorns?
She can become eligible after receiving her P-1 visa and international transfer clearance.
Which club did Nina Nijstad join Portland Thorns from?
Nijstad transferred to Portland from Dutch club PSV, where she spent three seasons.
How long is Nina Nijstad’s contract with Portland Thorns?
Her contract with Portland Thorns runs through the 2029 season.
What has Nina Nijstad achieved with PSV?
During her time with PSV, Nijstad helped the club win its first Eredivisie league championship and a second consecutive Eredivisie Cup.
