In the annals of Italian women's football, few names resonate with the same authority, longevity, and clinical precision as Cristiana Girelli. The Juventus icon has officially embarked on a new chapter, taking her talents across the Atlantic to the NWSL with Bay FC.
Whether you are tracking her latest exploits in the NWSL or reflecting on her historic achievements with Le Azzurre, here is everything you need to know about Italy's undisputed "Queen of Goals."
2026 Update: The American Adventure & Contract
In a shock move that stunned Italian fans, Girelli left Juventus in February 2026 for a new challenge.
Club: Acquired by Bay FC (NWSL) on a loan deal extending through August 2026.
Contract Status: Before departing for California, Girelli extended her contract with Juventus until June 30, 2027, ensuring she returns to Turin to finish her illustrious career where she became a legend.
Impact: Coach Emma Coates cited Girelli's "winning mentality" and "proven goal-scoring" as essential additions to Bay FC’s roster.
Profile: Age, Height, and Position
Age: 35 (Born April 23, 1990).
Position: Striker (Centre Forward), famously wearing the No. 10 shirt.
Height: 1.74m (5'9"), providing a commanding physical presence in the box.
Goal Record: She has scored over 250 goals in professional club football and is currently the all-time leading active goalscorer for the Italian National Team (
$61+$ goals).
Net Worth and Legacy
While precise figures for female footballers are rarely public, Girelli is considered one of the highest-earning players in Italy due to her long career, endorsement deals with brands like Puma, and her status as a hall-of-fame icon.
Estimated Net Worth: Peaked at approximately $1 million – $3 million.
Historical Achievement
In 2022, she became only the eighth woman inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame, joining legends like Patrizia Panico and male icons like Diego Maradona and Zinedine Zidane.
Relationships and Famous Connections
| Question | Answer |
| Husband/Partner? | Girelli is known to be private about her personal life. She is not publicly married, and there is no confirmed information regarding a partner. |
| "The Tongue" Search? | This refers to a viral photo from the 2023 World Cup where Girelli celebrated a goal against Argentina by sticking her tongue out—a moment of pure relief after scoring the winner in the 87th minute. |
| Famous Italy Player? | Yes, she is considered arguably the most famous and influential Italian female player of the modern era. |
| Seven Sisters? | This refers to a historical term used to describe the top seven teams in Italian men's football during the 90s (Juve, Milan, Inter, Roma, Lazio, Parma, Fiorentina). It is not typically applied to the women's game. |