From Roman Streets to D.C. Glory: Di Guglielmo's Spirited NWSL Debut Steals the Show
Lucia Di Guglielmo has wasted no time making her mark at the Washington Spirit after transferring from AS Roma, impressing in her NWSL debut against Portland Thorns despite a 1-0 loss. The 28-year-old Italian right-back sought a fresh challenge abroad, praising the club's values and her new teammate Sofia Cantore for paving the way for more Italian talent. Teammates like Trinity Rodman and coaches hailed her defensive masterclass, with high hopes for her adaptation to the league's intensity.
From Colosseum to Capitol: Lucia Di Guglielmo's Bold American Adventure
Ever fancied trading pasta for pretzels and the Trevi Fountain for the Tidal Basin? That's exactly what Italy's tenacious right-back Lucia Di Guglielmo did when she swapped AS Roma for the Washington Spirit. At 28, after five seasons bossing Serie A Femminile, she craved a proper shake-up. 'Roma felt like home,' she reckons, 'but nothing screams "out of your comfort zone" like jetting across the Atlantic.'
The Spirit's interest hit her like a thunderbolt. Never even visited D.C. before – her only US jaunt was a family trip to New York – but chats with the coaches sealed it. 'Values matter,' she says. 'We clicked on what I could bring: grit, technique, and that Italian flair.' Sporting director James Hocken was buzzing too, calling her a 'real footballer' – comfy on the ball yet tough enough for the NWSL's physical grind.
Scouting Gems from Italy's Rising Tide
Hocken's crew mixed old-school eyeballs with data wizardry to snag Di Guglielmo, following in the tracks of compatriot Sofia Cantore, the first Italian to crack the NWSL in 2025. Now, with Lisa Boattin at Houston Dash and Di Guglielmo in D.C., Italy's exporting talent like it's limoncello. 'Sofia kicked the door open,' Hocken admits. 'Seeing them shine at the UEFA Women’s Euros confirmed they're ready to boss it stateside.'
Di Guglielmo and Cantore share war stories – injuries, comebacks, the lot. 'We've grafted hard and earned this,' she grins. Facing off against Cantore's Juventus back in Italy? Now they're teammates, plotting NWSL dominance together. It's like a Serie A reunion with Yankee flair.
Debut Fireworks at Rowdy Audi Field
Friday's home opener against Portland Thorns? Di Guglielmo didn't just dip a toe – she dived in headfirst, starting and starring in a 1-0 defeat. Spirit fans at 'Rowdy Audi' had her wrapped in hugs quicker than you can say 'forza'. 'Amazing crowd, super welcoming,' she beamed post-match, shrugging off the loss.
Everything's faster, fiercer here, but she loved it. Won 8 of 11 duels, sparked attacks from deep, kept the possession ticking. Teammates were losing it: Trinity Rodman called her half-time show 'the craziest thing I've ever seen'. Hal Hershfelt raved about her 'last-toe tackles' saving their skins in the box. Hocken's scouting? Spot on – this is just the teaser.
Settling In, D.C. Style
Adjustment's step-by-step, no rushing. Di Guglielmo's thriving on D.C.'s multicultural vibe, much like Rome's global melting pot. 'It's travel without leaving town,' she laughs. 'Can't wait to dive into the culture and bond with the lads – er, lasses.'
With her Azzurri pedigree and Roma nous, expect Di Guglielmo to be a Spirit cornerstone. The NWSL's gaining an Italian import who's equal parts silk and steel. Pub prediction? She'll have them challenging for silverware before you know it. Forza Washington Spirit – and pass the pizza.