Xiomara Rodriguez began playing football at around the age of five with her first club, Oceanside Breakers, beginning a journey that would eventually take her from California to England.

Since arriving in the UK, Xio has represented IFG Macclesfield and Macclesfield Women before spending time with Blackburn Rovers.

She enjoyed success with IFG Macclesfield during the 2024/25 season, helping the side win the NYFL League, but identifies earning the opportunity to come to England to pursue her football career as her proudest achievement so far.

Xio had first become aware of Bolton Wanderers through playing against what she believed to be the club’s college side during her time with Macclesfield, although she knew relatively little about the Women’s first team at that stage.

When the opportunity arose to trial with Wanderers, however, it was one she was determined to take.

A versatile, committed and hard-working player, Xio can operate in central midfield or at centre-back. She considers her composure and ability to adapt to what a game requires among her biggest strengths.

Her ambitions with Wanderers are to help the team win the league while continuing her own development and becoming the best player she can be.

The number four shirt also carries special meaning. Although Xio did not choose the number herself, she was delighted when it was assigned to her because her late cousin wore number four when playing volleyball.

Get to know Xio

Javier Hernández – better known as Chicharito – was Xio’s footballing idol growing up. Raised in a Mexican household, he was someone she always looked up to.

One of her favourite football memories is attending a game between Liga MX sides Atlas and Cruz Azul in Los Angeles with her dad and friends, with the atmosphere and overall experience making it particularly memorable.

Away from football, Xio enjoys spending time with friends and, whenever she is back home in California, going to the beach.

Alongside her football career, she is studying for a bachelor’s degree in Football Studies at university.

Xio also has an important pre-match routine, saying the same prayer before every kick-off and again when she steps onto the pitch.

And something Wanderers supporters might not expect? She spent four years taking part in show choir while at high school.

Favourite TV series: Manifest
Favourite artist: Brent Faiyaz
Tea or coffee: Coffee
Morning person or night owl: Night owl
Sweet or savoury: Sweet