AP Exclusive: New signing Caroline Weir wants to help OL Lyonnes return to the top of women's soccer

OL Lyonnes missed the opportunity for a record-extending ninth Women's Champions League title after suffering a 4-0 defeat to Barcelona in last season's final. Caroline Weir, the club's key goal-scoring midfielder who joined from Real Madrid, understands the pain of that loss. "Everyone here last season knows what it took to get there.

I know the players felt that disappointment," Weir told The Associated Press. Weir, a new player, is eager to learn from her more experienced teammates and coach, Jonatan Giráldez, who previously guided Barcelona to two Champions League titles. The Women's Champions League begins on Tuesday, with 18 teams competing over six match days.

Eight teams will advance to the quarterfinals, and the top four teams will enter knockout-phase playoffs. Weir, a prolific scorer in Spain, scored 20 goals last season and 28 in the 2022-23 campaign. She is aware of what makes Barcelona tick, describing their mentality as being informed by their successes and winning experiences.

Weir hopes to help Lyon improve in key moments under Giráldez's guidance. Michele Kang, the club's president, has played a significant role in Weir's decision to join Lyon. Kang, an American businesswoman, owns Washington Spirit in the National Women's Soccer League and London City Lionesses. Kang's dedication to growing women's soccer and her strong commitment to the club were inspiring factors for Weir.

Weir also emphasizes the importance of improving sustainability in women's soccer, from the grassroots level to lower tiers of football in all countries, and increasing the number of women in coaching and decision-making roles.