Tampa Bay Sun FC defends signing controversial ex-NWSL draft pick Nasello

Tampa Bay Sun FC has signed former Portland Thorns draft pick Sydny Nasello, who did not play in the NWSL after controversy erupted over her social media activity.

Nasello was selected 13th overall in the 2022 NWSL Draft, but fans quickly raised concerns over her sharing several tweets that were alleged to be xenophobic, transphobic, and misogynistic.

In the aftermath of the selection, Thorns supporters group Rose City Riveters posted: “Fascism, racism, homophobia, transphobia- we are against these. We don’t support anyone who represents/espouses these views, full stop.”

Though Nasello apologized, the Thorns eventually opted to not sign the forward. The team’s head coach at the time, Rhian Wilkinson, admitted that the club didn’t do enough due diligence before selecting Nasello.

“As a first year head coach and — yeah, these are these are gonna come across as excuses — but I do need to hold my hand up and be responsible for not doing the work needed on the social media side,” Wilkinson said, per The Athletic .

Nasello wound up signing for Spanish side Tenerife, before playing for Cypriot side Apollon Limassol and most recently Turkish club Fatih Vatan Spor Kulübü.

Sun defends Nasello signing

On Monday, the Sun announced it had landed Nasello ahead of the club’s first season in the brand-new USL Super League.

After announcing the 24-year-old’s signing, Tampa Bay released a statement saying that the ex-U.S. youth international had changed after spending two years abroad.

“Sydny is a talented and experienced athlete, and we look forward to seeing her contributions on the field,” the club said.

“We understand that today’s announcement may generate discussion. However, we believe in Sydny’s growth and the experiences that have contributed to her perspectives today.

“Sydny’s career has taken her worldwide, fostering a deep appreciation for diversity and understanding, values that the Tampa Bay Sun Football Club holds dear.

“We celebrate our city’s rich tapestry and the opportunity for all members of our community to learn, grow and make positive change.”

The USL Super League’s inaugural season will begin in August, as the league — which has been granted Division One sanctioning by U.S. Soccer — gets set to launch with eight clubs across the country.

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