Lily Yohannes is an American professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Ajax in the Dutch Eredivisie Vrouwen and the United States women’s national team. Renowned for her composure, vision, and technical skill, she has quickly become one of the brightest young talents in women’s football.
Early Life and Background
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Full Name: Lilian Isabella Yohannes
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Date of Birth: 12 June 2007
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Place of Birth: Springfield, Virginia, USA
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Nationality: American (of Eritrean descent)
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Height: 173 cm
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Position: Midfielder
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Moved to the Netherlands: Age 10, after her father accepted a job in Amsterdam
Yohannes began her football journey in the US, but her development accelerated after moving to the Netherlands, where she played for boys’ teams and quickly stood out for her technical and tactical abilities.
Club Career
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Ajax (2023–present):
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Started training with Ajax at 13, signed a three-year professional contract at 15—the youngest in club history.
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Made her first-team debut at 16, becoming the youngest player ever to start a UEFA Women’s Champions League group stage match (against PSG).
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Key player in Ajax’s run to the Champions League quarter-finals and the 2024 KNVB Women’s Cup victory.
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Named Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year for the 2023–24 Eredivisie season.
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In her first Eredivisie season: 5 goals in 20 matches, standout performances in Europe and domestically.
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As of the 2024/25 season: 19 league appearances, 2 Champions League matches, and 1 Dutch Cup appearance.
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International Career
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United States Women’s National Team (USWNT):
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Eligible for both the Netherlands and the US, Yohannes chose to represent the US.
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Made her senior USWNT debut on 4 June 2025 in a friendly against South Korea, scoring on her debut at age 17.
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Previously called up for the SheBelieves Cup, becoming the youngest player named to the senior USWNT roster since 2017.
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Playing Profile
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Strengths:
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Composed under pressure, excellent vision, strong passing, and ability to control tempo
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Defensively robust and creative in attack
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Style:
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Modern central midfielder, comfortable in possession, quick decision-maker, and effective in both defensive and attacking transitions
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Achievements & Honours
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Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year: 2023–24 (Ajax/Eredivisie)
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KNVB Women’s Cup Winner: 2024 (Ajax)
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Youngest player to start a UEFA Women’s Champions League group stage match
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Scored on USWNT debut at age 17
FAQs About Lily Yohannes
What position does Lily Yohannes play?
Midfielder
Which club does she play for?
Ajax (Netherlands)
How old is Lily Yohannes?
17 (born June 12, 2007)
What are her main achievements?
Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year, KNVB Cup winner, youngest UWCL starter, scored on USWNT debut
What is her playing style?
Composed, creative, and technically gifted central midfielder
Conclusion
Lily Yohannes is already making history as a teenager, breaking records at Ajax and on the international stage with the USWNT. Her rapid rise, technical excellence, and maturity on the pitch signal a superstar in the making for club and country.
