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Seattle Reign: Jessica Fishlock to join Olympique Lyonnais on loan

LYON, France (Sept. 24, 2018) – Jessica Fishlock has been playing professional soccer since 2002.

Ever since the start of her career, Fishlock has been no stranger to traveling all over the world. Her career has taken her to England, Australia, the Netherlands, Germany, Scotland, and the United States. Now, Fishlock will continue her career in a new country: France.

Jessica Fishlock to join Olympique Lyonnais on loan

After rumors swirled during the NWSL Championship that Fishlock would join Olympique Lyonnais, the news was confirmed on Monday.

However, the Seattle Reign confirmed that the move was a loan. Fishlock has noted that she has intentions to return to the Reign after her time in France is over. According to the Reign, she will remain with OL until the team’s run in the 2018-19 UEFA Women’s Champions League is finished.

This past year, OL won the tournament, defeating VFL Wolfsburg.

Fishlock said that growing up in Europe made her taste for playing in the Champions League — which she called a “magical” competition — immense. Fishlock is a native of Wales.

“When I went on loan to Frankfurt in 2015 I got to enjoy the competition, but I had to return to the NWSL prior to the final,” Fishlock said. “I feel very lucky to have the chance to return to the competition with Lyon and to hopefully have the chance to play in the final.”

She went on to say that Seattle has been “fantastic” and is supporting her decision.

“I am extremely thankful to be part of such a tremendous organization,” Fishlock said. “I cannot wait to get back to Seattle to work towards the title next season with the Reign.”

Fishlock has been part of the Reign FC since its formation in 2013. She has recorded more than 100 appearances for the Reign, reaching that mark back in April. During that time, Fishlock said she’s had a lot of fun along the way to 100 appearances.

“It means a lot that I’ve been here for a long time, and I’m able to show that kind of commitment to the Reign and their commitment to me,” Fishlock said. “It’s a huge milestone.”

Fishlock has also made 101 international appearances for Wales.