PC: Chicago Stars FC
Chicago Stars FC announced Tuesday that they have agreed to part ways with midfielder Leilanni Nesbeth. They have mutually agreed to part ways before the expiration of her contract at the end of the 2026 season.
According to the club's official statement, the decision allows Nesbeth to pursue other opportunities after spending three seasons with the club.
"We're grateful for everything that Leilanni has brought to the club during her three seasons in Chicago," Chicago Stars FC president Karen Leetzow said in a statement.
"[Nesbeth] has shown the utmost dedication to our club and the Chicago community, and we wish her all the best and continued success in her next opportunity,” Leetzow added.
Nesbeth shared a heartfelt goodbye, thanking the club, her teammates, and supporters.
"Chicago will always hold a special place in my heart," Nesbeth said. "This team brought my biggest dream to life, and I will always be grateful for the lessons, the challenges, the laughs, and the unimaginable growth."
Nesbeth was selected 10th overall by Chicago in the 2024 NWSL Draft and became the first Bermudian to play in the NWSL when she made her professional debut on March 23, 2024.
Looking back at her time with the Stars, Nesbeth scored her first professional goal against the Washington Spirit on May 1, 2024.
While the move comes as a mutual decision to terminate her contract, it also appears to be part of the Chicago Stars’ broader roster planning.
It’s possible that Nesbeth was already set to be out of contract after the 2026 season and was not in the club's long-term plans.
By finalizing the separation now, the club opens an additional spot for head coach Martin Sjögren as she continues reshaping the squad.
The departure marks another significant move for a Chicago team looking to build toward the future as the second half of the NWSL season approaches. The Chicago Stars now have greater flexibility during the summer transfer window.
The timing of Leilanni Nesbeth's departure just days before Chicago returns to action on July 5 against the Utah Royals could lead to implications for the second half of the season.
