Van de Donk Joins Lionesses After WSL Promotion

London City Lionesses, newly promoted to the Women's Super League (WSL), have signed Dutch international midfielder Daniëlle van de Donk on a two-year contract. Van de Donk, 33, who has 167 caps for the Netherlands and previously played for Arsenal, joins from French champions Lyon; both clubs share ownership under Michele Kang. She brings extensive experience, including league titles in England and France, a Champions League win in 2022, and a 2017 European Championship with the Netherlands. This is the Lionesses' first signing since promotion, and as the only fully independent club in the WSL, they hope to make a significant impact. Van de Donk highlighted the club's family-like atmosphere and ambitious vision as motivations for her return to England. The WSL is scheduled to expand from 12 to 14 teams for the 2026-27 season, reflecting continued growth in women's football.