Portland Thorns FC signed Venezuelan midfielder Deyna Castellanos through the 2026 season, with a club option for 2027. The experienced midfielder from top European clubs and the Venezuelan national team will bring a level of technical quality and competitive mentality to the Thorns midfield.
Follow MLS Multiplex on X (Twitter).
A midfielder with vision and high press
Deyna Castellanos is a name that stands out because of what she contributes on the pitch. Primarily used on the right-hand side, she is one of those players who can guarantee precision in passes and has no problem playing under pressure. She has played for Atlético de Madrid, Manchester City, and more recently Bay FC of the NWSL.
While it was a tough first season with an expansion team, Castellanos did make her presence known in 2024 with Bay FC, netting two goals and one assist in 25 matches, including the first official goal at Bay FC's new home stadium. She also started 12 games in the NWSL that season.
An impressive track record
At 25, Castellanos has achieved milestones that many players dream of: starting her professional career with Atlético de Madrid, netting 26 goals and 12 assists in 71 appearances. A standout moment came in the final of the 2021 Supercopa de España Femenina, where she scored the winning goal, securing Atlético's first major title in five years.
Following her time in Spain, Deyna moved to Manchester City, for which she played 36 matches with five goals recorded and four assists.
Her time in the NCAA with Florida State University helped to set up this reputation as a talented and gutsy player, going on to have 48 goals and 22 assists to help win the 2018 national championship, before becoming one of the most outstanding players in program history.
Impact on Portland Thorns
Castellanos' signing with Portland Thorns is tactical on many fronts. On the pitch, she adds depth and skill to midfield, especially to a position where her vision and passing ability will be key in breaking down opponent defenses. Off the pitch, the international experience for the Venezuelan national team, wherein she has made 38 matches with 22 goals and 15 assists, furthers her leadership potential.
Head coach Rob Gale underlined the importance of the signing: "We're excited to welcome Deyna to the Thorns. She's a player with qualities we believe we can continue to develop and refine within our program."
A growth opportunity for Castellanos
This transfer means yet another big chapter in the career of Deyna Castellanos. At 25, she is at her physical and technical peak, ready to fight with a well-structured and historically successful team. Portland Thorns provides an environment that values both individual development and collective success-the perfect conditions for Castellanos to keep growing.