Lindsey Horan is one of the most influential midfielders in women’s soccer. Her vision, technical skill, and leadership make her a key player for both the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) and Olympique Lyonnais. Over the years, she has developed into a versatile and dominant presence in the midfield, capable of controlling games with ease.
In this article, we’ll explore her journey, playing style, achievements, and future prospects.
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Early Life and Bold Career Choice
A Passion for Soccer
Lindsey Horan was born on May 26, 1994, in Golden, Colorado. From a young age, she displayed exceptional talent. Unlike most young American players, she didn’t play college soccer. Instead, she made a bold move to Europe—a decision that shaped her career.
Choosing Europe Over College
Most U.S. players go through the college system before turning professional. But Horan had different plans. She chose to sign with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2012 at just 18 years old. This decision made her one of the first American women to skip college soccer and turn pro in Europe.
Rise to Stardom at PSG
Making an Immediate Impact
At PSG, Horan quickly proved her worth. She played as a striker, using her strength and technical ability to score goals. Her performances helped PSG compete with Lyon, the dominant force in French women’s soccer.
Consistent Goal Scorer
During her time at PSG (2012–2016), Horan scored 46 goals in 58 league games. She became known for her clinical finishing, aerial ability, and tactical intelligence.
First Major Trophy
In 2014, she won her first major title, the Coupe de France Féminine. This victory marked an important step in her career.
Return to the U.S. and NWSL Success
Joining Portland Thorns
In 2016, Horan returned to the U.S. to play for the Portland Thorns in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). This move allowed her to play closer to home and solidify her role as a midfielder.
A Key Midfielder
At Portland, she transitioned from a striker to a box-to-box midfielder. She became the heartbeat of the team, controlling the tempo and breaking up play.
Winning the NWSL MVP (2018)
Horan’s best NWSL season came in 2018. She scored 13 goals, helped the Thorns reach the NWSL final, and won the league MVP award. Her ability to dominate midfield battles made her one of the best players in the league.
USWNT Career: A Key Leader
Early National Team Days
Horan first represented the USWNT in 2013. However, she struggled to secure a starting spot in a stacked squad. But over time, she worked her way into the lineup.
2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion
By 2019, Horan was a regular starter. She played a crucial role in the USWNT’s World Cup-winning campaign, contributing with her passing, defensive work, and composure.
Even though she didn’t start every match, she was a key player in midfield rotations. Her adaptability and skill set made her vital for the team.
Becoming Captain and Leader
In 2022, Horan was named co-captain of the USWNT, sharing the role with Alex Morgan. This was a huge moment in her career. Her leadership and experience made her a natural choice.
2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup
At the 2023 Women’s World Cup, Horan was one of the most important players for the U.S. She scored crucial goals, including a header against the Netherlands, but the team’s early exit was a disappointment.
Despite the setback, Horan’s performances were a reminder of her world-class ability.
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Move to Olympique Lyonnais
Loan Move to Lyon (2022)
In 2022, Horan made another bold decision. She joined Olympique Lyonnais—one of the most successful women’s teams in the world—on loan from Portland Thorns.
Winning the Champions League
That same year, she helped Lyon win the UEFA Women’s Champions League. She became one of the few American players to lift the prestigious European trophy.
Permanent Transfer (2023)
In 2023, Lyon signed Horan permanently. She continued to dominate in midfield, helping the club win more French league titles and domestic cups.
Playing Style: What Makes Her Special?
1. Versatility in Midfield
Horan can play multiple midfield roles. She excels as a box-to-box midfielder, a defensive midfielder, or even as an attacking playmaker.
2. Strength and Physicality
Her strength and aerial ability make her a dominant force in midfield. She wins tackles, shields the ball well, and outmuscles opponents.
3. Passing and Vision
Horan’s passing range is elite. She can play short, quick passes to control possession or long, accurate balls to create scoring chances.
4. Goal-Scoring Ability
Unlike most midfielders, she has a strong goal-scoring record. Her ability to arrive late in the box and finish with both feet makes her a threat.
5. Leadership and Mentality
Her winning mentality and calm presence make her a great leader. She steps up in big moments and always fights for her team.
Key Achievements and Career Stats
Club Achievements
- 🏆 NWSL MVP (2018)
- 🏆 NWSL Champion (2017)
- 🏆 Coupe de France Féminine (2014)
- 🏆 UEFA Women’s Champions League (2022)
- 🏆 Multiple Division 1 Féminine Titles with Lyon
International Achievements
- 🏆 FIFA Women’s World Cup Winner (2019)
- 🏆 SheBelieves Cup Champion (Multiple Times)
- 🏆 CONCACAF Women’s Championship Winner
Career Stats (As of 2025)
- USWNT Caps: 140+
- USWNT Goals: 40+
- Club Appearances: 250+
- Club Goals: 80+
Comparison with Other Midfielders
Horan is often compared to Rose Lavelle, Aitana Bonmatí, and Sam Kerr (who sometimes plays in midfield). But how does she stack up?
- ✅ More physical than Lavelle – She is stronger in duels.
- ✅ Better defensively than Bonmatí – She has a higher work rate.
- ✅ More complete than Kerr in midfield – She offers both goals and defensive contributions.
Her unique skill set makes her one of the most complete midfielders in the world.
Future Prospects
Horan is in her prime and still improving. Here’s what the future may hold:
- 🏆 Lead the USWNT to another World Cup victory
- 🏆 Win more Champions League titles with Lyon
- 🏆 Become one of the greatest midfielders in history
With her talent and leadership, she could shape the future of U.S. women’s soccer.
Final Thoughts: A True Leader and Game-Changer
Lindsey Horan is not just a great player—she is a leader, a fighter, and a winner. Her ability to control games, score goals, and lead her team makes her one of the best midfielders in the world.
With multiple club titles, a World Cup, and years left at the top, she is building a legacy that will inspire future generations.
The best of Lindsey Horan is yet to come!
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