Chicago Stars have announced that they have reached a mutual agreement to part ways with LeiLanni Nesbeth ahead of the expiry of her contract, allowing the Bermudian forward to pursue new opportunities.

“We’re grateful for everything that LeiLanni has brought to the club during her three seasons in Chicago,” said Chicago Stars FC president Karen Leetzow.

“She has shown the utmost dedication to our club and the Chicago community and wish her all the best and continued success in her next opportunity.”

Nesbeth, who signed a three-year contract with the National Women’s Soccer League side in March 2024, expressed her appreciation to the club.

“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.

“I’ve had the privilege of crossing paths with some incredible people and will cherish those relationships for ever.

“I want to thank the club for this amazing opportunity, my team-mates for pushing me to be my best every day, and the fans for their unwavering support over the years.

“While I’m excited for the next chapter of my journey, I’ll always look back on my time in Chicago with immense gratitude and pride.”

Following her great exploits with Florida State University in 2023, the 24-year-old Nesbeth was drafted tenth overall by the Stars in 2024. She made her professional debut on March 23, 2024, becoming the first Bermudian to play in the NWSL.

Nesbeth netted her first professional goal against the Washington Spirit on May 1 the same year at SeatGeek Stadium, blasting in a shot from distance via a deflection.

Two months later, Nesbeth registered her first professional assist against the Houston Dash, taking possession off a pass from a Dash player and reversing the run of play by tapping the ball to Mallory Swanson, who scored a left-footed goal from outside the box.

During Nesbeth’s time with Stars, she played 1,275 minutes in 33 appearances, scored once and provided one assist.